READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,884 Hypno-Scripts by Mary Deal. Life Changing Techniques Using Self-Hypnosis and Meditation. Unleash the power of your mind and discover your potential. Do you wish you had the power to become all that you can be? All good-intentioned programming works best when you reach a deeper state of mind…. Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,567 Down To The Needle by Mary Deal. A Psychological Thriller. From the day her five-year-old was abducted, Abigail Fisher vowed never to stop looking until her daughter was safely back home. But despite multiple searches, twenty-three years have passed without a trace of Becky Ann. When Abigail learns… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,967 Legacy of the Tropics by Mary Deal. Adventure/Suspense. A trilogy of stories that shatter the myths of stereotypical islands of paradise. In Promises, during the late 1960s, the ketch, Mercy, sinks during a sea storm off Culebra near the Virgin Islands. Ciara Malloy assumes custody of her drowned… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,576 The Ka by Mary Deal. Paranormal/Historical/Suspense. Archaeology student Chione has vivid dreams about the discovery of an opulent tomb. After the founder of the Institute of Archaeology learns that Chione’s dreams might be connected to events in Egypt, he accepts an offer to examine a mysterious site in… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,605 Sea Cliff by Mary Deal. Rachael Connor has great looks, money and a home of her own, but childhood abuse has left her fearful of men. When Rachael meets Matthew, she begins to rethink her life. He falls in love with her, but Rachael rebukes him, living by… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,623 Off Center In The Attic by Mary Deal. A Collection of Short Stories and Flash Fiction. Humor and nonsense, flights of fantasy into other realms, fright, disgust and disappointment, silliness and wonderment, and the sadness of reality and heartache. It’s all here, and more, in stories that may… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,597 Sara Mason Mysteries (Trilogy) River Bones by Mary Deal. Sara Mason Mysteries Book 1. A serial killer is on the loose in Sacramento River Delta. When Sara Mason returns to her hometown to start a new life, she learns that a murderer is terrorizing its residents. Despite battling… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 3,236 Children’s Literature.Pre-School to Grade Three. Broose The Moose On The Loose by Janice (J. E.) Spina. Broose is a sad moose who has no friends until he meets a young boy. Read what happens when Broose meets a boy with the same name as he. Review: Broose the… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 3,432 Davey & Derek Junior Detectives Series. Middle-Grade/Preteen/Teens/Young Adults. Davey & Derek Junior Detectives: The Case Of The Missing Cell Phone by Janice Spina. Davey & Derek Junior Detectives Book 1. Davey & Derek Junior Detectives is Book One of a series of mysteries and adventures. Davey and Derek… Continue reading →
Abby & Holly 6 Book Series. MG/PT BOOKS FOR 10+ Middle-Grade/Preteen/Teens/Young Adults
Abby & Holly: School Dance by Janice Spina.
Abby & Holly Book 1.
These two girls were first introduced in Book 5 of the Davey & Derek Junior Detectives Series.
The girls are first cousins on their mothers’ side. They moved to the quiet town of Lindon, New Hampshire and live in a grand old Victorian which is haunted.
The cousins are excited about attending the 6th grade dance.
When their friend, Justine, is bullied, Abby and Holly, along with the help of a ghost and Davey & Derek, work together to formalize a plan to put a stop to the bullying.
This book won a Bronze Medal from Readers’ Favorite Book Awards in August of 2019.
Review by Mrs. D.: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Say hello to the Abby and Holly series!
“Move over, Davey and Derek? Or maybe not… The duo is back, and the girls and boys are taking the world by the horns with another thrilling adventure! The haunted house! The mysterious ghost! The undying friendship! Good life lessons! And no more bullying!
Abby and Holly are cousins. The girls were first introduced in Book 5 of the Davey and Derek Junior Detectives series.
Janice Spina has beautifully blended two separate series in her new book, which is meant to entertain and educate middle grade readers. This time she sent two girls to solve a mystery that was quite intriguing. While trying to be just normal students, team members are dealing with serious issues so common for sixth graders: jealousy, intolerance, and bullying. The story is fun and adventurous, but the author smartly implants very important seeds that touch on problems so familiar for a middle school audience.
In this new book, Abby and Holly team up with their friends Davey and Derek, two shy but very experienced young detectives. The team needs to find out who is sabotaging one of their classmates, Justine, who plans her sixth-grade school dance. Fearing that the girl is being bullied, the team members work closely with each other and their friends.
The story is sweet. It flows smoothly, just like other books from this wonderful author, which manages to surprise the young readers with perfectly developed characters and a wise plot. Even if the readers haven’t had the chance to get familiar with the Davey and Derek series, they won’t feel lost or have a hard time connecting the new story to Davey and Derek. And just like me, I hope the girls and boys will jump into the new adventures with a touch of fantasy, mystery, and some stronger feelings like love, forgiveness, and being kind to each other.
“Abby and Holly: School Dance” is one of those books that will make children feel good about themselves. The lessons of friendship and kindness are nicely incorporated into a fun story, which will put a smile on children’s faces. Trouble. Solution. Sweet first love. Friendship. And kindness. All of these qualities are in one book for young readers to enjoy. Yes, Justine is bullied, but she has a strong group of friends behind her, which helps her to overcome the fear of bullies. And with the help of her friends, the bullies may change their attitude too.
I am delighted that this book carries strong messages about the importance of being compassionate, kind, loving and accepting. It teaches teens to remember how they would feel if their places were reversed. Another entertaining and teaching series for middle schoolers by Janice Spina!
Message From The Author: This book came to me after I received a request from a reader for a series for girls like the one I wrote for boys, Davey & Derek Junior Detectives. I introduced Abby and Holly in Book 5 of Davey & Derek series and the idea was born to write a series for the girls.
I think both boys and girls will love this new series since Davey and Derek are in this book and will most likely appear in the next one. The girls and boys will combine their skills to solve more mysteries.
I love to hear from readers about my books and welcome reviews wherever the books are purchased. Happy reading everyone!
With Blessings & Hugs, Janice Spina
Product Details: Series: Abby & Holly (Book 1) John Spina (Illustrator) MG/PT/YA Ages 10 + Middle-Grade/Preteen/Young Adult Children: Abby and Holly Series Children: Fantasy and Magic Children: Mystery (Action)
Abby and Holly are cousins who are more like sisters. They enjoy doing everything together.
Holly lives with Abby and her family in a haunted Victorian. Holly must deal with some difficult decisions in her family when unexpected and unfortunate events come to pass.
Abby is there to lend support to Holly along with two ghostly apparitions, Felicity and Minerva, who live in Abby’s house. These specters provide some magical and helpful advice along the way as they watch over Holly during this difficult time.
The girls’ friends, twins Davey and Derek Donato, from their own series, pop in to support Holly and bring some fun and comical relief to the story.
Review by Michelle Clements James: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. A Stellar Book With Important Lessons
“I am so excited about the Abby and Holly Series for girls, but it could be equally enjoyed by boys. In Abby & Holly Series Book 2: Unfortunate Events, Abby’s cousin, Holly, is faced with some difficult issues. While her parents are away on overseas jobs, Holly is living with Abby. Things go downhill when her parents return for a visit and her mother becomes ill. Throughout this trying time, Holly has a tremendous amount of support from Abby, her Aunt Jane and Uncle Bob, and two ghosts who live in Abby’s house, Felicity and Minerva. Of course, their friends Davey and Derek are there to help, too.
As with all of Spina’s children’s books, Unfortunate Events teaches life lessons such as respect, kindness toward others, and the importance of being polite. This book concentrates on handling the unexpected and overcoming life’s disappointments. The unexpected was Holly’s mother’s illness and hospital stay. With the love of her extended family, Holly was able to cope with her worry for her mother. Disappointment was addressed when her father announced that he was flying out to finish his work overseas. He explained to Holly the importance of fulling his obligations to his employer.
I highly recommend Abby & Holly Series Book 2: Unfortunate Events to all middle-graders, both girls and boys. The story line is one that will keep children interested with its elements of suspense and mystery. Though there are references to a childhood crush, they are not a major component of the story and certainly not enough to deter boys’ interest. And who doesn’t love a friendly little ghost or two! As with all the author’s children’s books, this one is true to her ideals of writing books that encourage children to read while incorporating those all-important life lessons. As a book I think every parent will want their daughters and sons to read, I give Unfortunate Events 5 stars!”
Message From The Author: This book came to me after I received a request from a reader for a series for girls like the one I wrote for boys, Davey & Derek Junior Detectives. I introduced Abby and Holly in Book 5 of Davey & Derek series and the idea was born to write a series for the girls.
I think both boys and girls will love this new series since Davey and Derek are in this book and will most likely appear in the next one. The girls and boys will combine their skills to solve more mysteries.
I love to hear from readers about my books and welcome reviews wherever the books are purchased. Happy reading everyone!
This book won a Pinnacle Book Achievement Award in 2019!
With Blessings & Hugs, Janice Spina
Product Details: John Spina (Illustrator) MG/PT/YA Ages 10 + Middle-Grade/Preteen/Young Adult Children: Abby and Holly Series Children: Fantasy and Magic Children: Mystery (Action)
Abby & Holly: Secrets Of The Trunk by Janice Spina.
Abby & Holly Book 3.
Join Abby and Holly in Book 3 as the cousins discover a new presence in their old Victorian while they are cleaning out the library of old books.
They are not sure if this specter is benign or otherwise. This being leads them to the old trunk they discovered in Book 2 which holds many secrets and puzzles that they feel compelled to solve.
They enlist the help of their ghost friend, Felicity, who inhabits their home. She is a benevolent entity that once lived in their house from a century ago. She watches over the girls and vows never to leave them unless they request her to do so.
There will be surprises and ghostly visits that will keep readers enthralled as Abby and Holly work together to uncover the secrets of the trunk.
Review by Trish: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Family fun!
“Abby and Holly, cousins and best friends, find themselves intrigued with a mystery they uncover while cleaning the attic in their home. Follow the girls on a treasure hunt leading to danger and excitement. Such fun! I love that the author leaves their story open for future adventures for the cousins. In this day and age, it is great to find such wholesome reading for our children, Nice job, Janice Spina!”
Review by Michele Rolfe: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Ghosts to the Rescue!
“Cousins Abby & Holly have some help from the resident ghosts Felicity & Minerva figuring out the secret of the Trunk! The girls have scary encounter with a “playful” sprite & Felicity & Minerva step in to help & protect the girls. Was worried about the end, but it is perfect beginning to the next book!! LOVED the things the girls go through & how they solve The Secrets of the Trunk!”
Message From The Author: This series is inspired and created for my granddaughter who loves to read. This is the third book in the series and more are coming in 2019 and beyond.
These characters, Abby & Holly, were introduced in Book 5 of Davey & Derek Junior Detectives Series.
I thoroughly enjoy writing these stories. They make me feel like a kid again. I let the characters take over the story and I go along for the ride. All ages love these books. They carry important life lessons that parents appreciate and happily pass along these books to their children and grandchildren to enjoy. I hope you will enjoy them too.
With Blessings & Hugs, Janice Spina
Product Details: John Spina (Illustrator) MG/PT/YA Ages 10 + Middle-Grade/Preteen/Young Adult Children: Abby and Holly Series Children: Fantasy and Magic Children: Mystery (Action)
Join the cousins, Abby and Holly, as they search for clues about who placed an urn up in their attic with the remains of a young girl who lived a century ago. Their old Victorian holds many secrets and the girls are determined to solve this mystery with the help of two ghost friends, Felicity and Minerva, who inhabit their home.
As the girls are searching for clues in their basement, they discover a hidden stairway. Upon entering the stairway, they find themselves unexpectedly catapulted back in time to a century ago.
Will they be able to return with the answers to the mystery? If not, who will help them get back? Or, will they be forever lost in time?
5 Stars: ‘The Hidden Stairway’ is Book 4 in the Abby & Holly Series. Even though each book in the series, stands-alone, Author Janice Spina skillfully draws from the previous books, which makes the series very appealing to young readers. For example: This book involves an urn and some jewels the girls found in a trunk in the attic during their adventure in book three. The mystery of who left the remains of a teenager named Annabelle Bradley (from 1880’s) in an urn in the attic and how did Annabelle come to have so much valuable jewelry carries over into book four.
The story opens as cousins Abby and Holly return from back-to-school shopping with their mothers. Young readers’ imaginations will soar, when they join these two cousins, as they continue to explore the old Victorian House (they live in) which reveals many secrets and ghosts from the past. The discovery of a hidden stairway, that allows the girls to travel back in time, will keep readers’ turning the page.
As a grandmother I can say, this book has a mystery, suspense driven adventure (equal if not better than Nancy Drew) with life lessons woven in, making this book and the Abby & Holly Series a perfect gift and summer reading for the Middle-Grades, Preteen, Teens and Young Adults.
Author Janice Spina and her husband, Dr. John Spina, make a great team. Dr. John Spina creates the book covers and story illustrations for all Janice Spina’s books. I am impressed with their attention to detail, as they work together to enhance the reading experience of all ages.
Books 5 and 6 in the Abby & Holly series is expected in late 2020 and 2021.
Editorial Review and Endorsement by Book Marketing Global Network.
Product Details: John Spina (Illustrator) Paperback: 266 Pages MG/PT/YA Ages 10 + Middle-Grade/Preteen/Young Adult Children: Abby and Holly Series Children: Fantasy and Magic Children: Mystery (Action)
The main protagonists, cousins Abby and Holly, find paintings by a young teenager, from the past with a copper key taped to the back of one of her paintings. This teen’s remains were found in their attic in Book 4.
The girls’ search begins to find the source of this key. They hope to use this key to unlock secrets or something valuable from the past. Will this key help uncover another mystery for the cousins? How far will the girls go in their search for truth or will they have to go back to the past? Will they be able to return home without somehow changing history forever?
Review by Mystery “Fran”: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Engaging, exciting, excellent! In Book Five of the Abby & Holly Series, The Copper Key, cousins Abby and Holly are compelled to solve the mystery behind an old copper key they find in the attic of Abby’s home. They are joined in their sleuthing by resident ghosts Felicity and Minerva as they travel back in time to discover what the key unlocks…Suspense, plot twists, and excitement are featured as the girls uncover the real story. The author, Janice Spina, does a great job of character development and seamlessly weaving themes of problem solving, cooperation, and friendship into the book. Fans of this series will love this installment – as I did! Middle school kids and young teens who read The Copper Key will be looking forward to Abby & Holly’s next adventure!
Review by Trish: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Fun, fun, fun! Those adorable cousins are back again! Abby and Holly find themselves faced with another mystery that needs their attention. This fun-loving duo find a strange old copper key in a very unlikely place. Because of their adventurous nature, the girls embark on a new journey to discover what this key opens. Follow them into the past to correct an unjust act of one person in order to help protect another. Janice Spina’s stories will keep your child’s interest while always remaining wholesome and age appropriate. Such fun
From The Author: This series is inspired and created for my granddaughter who loves to read. This is the fourth book in the series and two more are coming in 2020.This book was dedicated to my granddaughter, Leah, and my step-granddaughter, Laura, who love to read these books.
These characters, Abby & Holly, were introduced in Book 5 of Davey & Derek Junior Detectives Series.
I thoroughly enjoy writing these stories. They make me feel like a kid again. I let the characters take over the story and I go along for the ride. All ages love these books. They carry important life lessons that parents appreciate and happily pass along these books to their children and grandchildren to enjoy. I hope you will enjoy them too.
Janice enjoys hearing from readers and fans and welcomes reviews wherever her books are purchased.
Product Details: Paperback: 250 Pages Publisher: Janice Spina (May 5, 2020) John Spina (Illustrator) Language: English MG/PT/YA Ages 10 + Middle-Grade/Preteen/Young Adult Children: Abby and Holly Series Children: Fantasy and Magic Children: Mystery (Action)
Follow along with cousins, Abby and Holly, as they learn about some changes in history from their ghost friend, Felicity, who lived back in 1880.
These changes came about when the girls traveled back to the past to their Victorian when it was once a boarding house. While they were in the past they met a young woman, Annabelle Bradley, who was a talented artist. The cousins became friends with Annabelle in the short time they knew her. They also became involved in her life through her letters and diaries that they found in their home in the future.
The girls are distraught over how Annabelle died and want to go back and somehow change history to prevent her murder. In order to do this, they must enlist the help of their friends, Davey’s and Derek’s, great aunt, Gigi, who is a benevolent witch.
Will Gigi be able to put the girls back in time in the right place to make this change possible? If they do go back, will the girls be able to return without possibly endangering themselves and end up lost forever in the past due to the faulty timeline?
Review by Michelle Clements James: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Exciting story. Book 6 in the Abby & Holly Series is another exciting episode in the lives of the two cousins. This time, the girls want to go back in time once again and try to save their friend from the past, Annabelle Bradley, who they met the last time they entered the past. However, their ghost friends, Felicity and Minerva, are worried they might not be able to get the girls back to the present time, so they enlist the help of Aunt Gigi, a good witch, and her cat, Mianna, who also has powers. They are worried that a faulty timeline will prevent the girls’ return.
All the author’s children’s books teach life lessons. In this book, we learn that the girls have respect for their mothers’ wishes when they express fear that their daughters will be caught in another time. One example of this is when Holly asks, “what if our mothers still refuse to let us go back?” Abby responds, “Then we won’t go. We have to think of our mothers’ feelings, too.”
Abby & Holly Series Book 6 – Faulty Timeline is a wonderful book that will appeal to both boys and girls in middle grades.
I received a copy of Abby & Holly Series Book 6 – Faulty Timeline from the author and received no compensation for my honest review.
Review by Michele Rolfe: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Awesome Series End. WOW!! What a way to end the series!! The cousins Abby & Holly go back in time 1 last time to try to save their friend Annabelle from dying. They get the help of their twin friends, Derek’s & Davey’s Grt Aunt Gigi. a good witch. It was fun to read how the girls went back & what they had to do to keep from being seen by anyone in the past this time around. The twist & surprise at the end, is AWESOME!!
Review by Sara123: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Fabulous! Cousins Abby and Holly are back in author Janice Spina’s latest installment in the fabulous series that follows the girls’ adventures.
In this sixth volume, Faulty Timeline” – the twins go back in time intending to save the life of Annabelle the artist, a friend they met in their previous excursion to the 19th century after finding her letters and diaries. This time, recognizing the danger involved, the girls engage the help of a good witch, their friends Davey and Derek’s great aunt Gigi.
The story is captivating from the start. Abby and Holly and a host of other rich characters that include two resident friendly ghosts named Minerva and Felicity, keep young readers entertained.
Were Abby and Holly successful in their dangerous mission?
Was Annabelle’s life saved?
Read, and you shall find out!
Highly recommended!
From The Author: This series is inspired and created for my granddaughter who loves to read. This is the sixth book in the series and final book. This book was dedicated to my granddaughter, Leah, and my step-granddaughter, Laura, who love to read these books.
These characters, Abby & Holly, were introduced in Book 5 of Davey & Derek Junior Detectives Series.
I thoroughly enjoy writing these stories. They make me feel like a kid again. I let the characters take over the story and I go along for the ride. All ages love these books. They carry important life lessons that parents appreciate and happily pass along these books to their children and grandchildren to enjoy. I hope you will enjoy them too.
Product Details: Paperback: 281 Pages Publisher: Janice Spina (July 16, 2020) John Spina (Illustrator) Language: English MG/PT/YA Ages 10 + Middle-Grade/Preteen/Young Adult Children: Abby and Holly Series Children: Fantasy and Magic Children: Mystery (Action)
This is a magical series about Drystan the dragon
and his friends.
These dragons are colorful, engaging and fun to
read about.
They teach children the importance of friendship,
caring for one another, being kind to others, and it’s okay to be different.
All dragons are of different colors and their
names begin with the letter ‘D’ – a fun way for young children to learn the
letter ‘D’ and colors.
In Book 1 Drystan makes a few friend, Durward,
who invites him to visit the Land of the Rainbows.
While they are there they have an adventure. Find out what the dragons do to save the day.
5 Stars: As a grandmother, I know how important friends are to our children and who better to show the way than two beautifully illustrated dragons. As parents and grandparents, we seek to purchase books that will capture the imagination, while teaching valuable life lessons.
Award Winning Author Janice Spina and her husband John (illustrator) has created this amazing first book, in this dragon series.
Brightly colored illustrations will capture the child’s imagination as they read, or as an adult reads to them. The rhymes will stick in their mind, as he or she discovers a friendship between a red dragon named Drystan and a blue dragon named Durward.
The adventure unfolds in the Land Of Rainbows, where the two dragons extend their friendship to a colorful mother blue bird and her family, while lessons about helping others are learned.
I highly recommend this book as a good bedtime story, or go anywhere travel book. Five more books in this series are in the creative process. I invite you to purchase ‘Drystan the Dragon and Friends Series Book 1’ and watch for each new dragon book as it is published.
Editorial Review and Endorsement by Book Marketing Global Network.
Product Details: Paperback: 27 Pages Publisher: Janice Spina (February 1, 2020) John Spina (Illustrator) Language: English Reading Grades: Preschool-Grade 3 Children: Fantasy (Fairy Tales and Myths) Children: Fantasy (Dragons)
Damara Helps Drystan Find His Roar by Janice Spina.
Drystan The Dragon and Friends Series, Book 2.
This is the second book in the magical series about Drystan the dragon and his friends.
These dragons are colorful, engaging and fun to read about. They teach children the importance of friendship, caring for one another, being kind to others, and it’s okay to be different. All dragons are of different colors and their names begin with the letter ‘D’ – a fun way for young children to learn the letter ‘D’ and colors.
In Book 2 a new dragon is introduced – Damara, a different dragon who does things her own way. As she is traveling by one day, she spies a dragon, Drystan, in distress. She flies down to see what is wrong. It appears that Drystan has lost his roar. What caused Drystan to lose his roar? Can Damara help him get it back? Read this book in rhyme for a comical story that will delight your children. Watch for more books in this mystical series.
Review by Sara123: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. To Be Different is Okay! Author Janice Spina’s second book in her new series, “Drystan the Dragon and Friends” is a fine addition to her ever-growing list of books written for enriching the lives of young readers. In the second volume, “Damara Helps Drystan Find His Roar”, Damara, a green dragon who is different than others, does not worry about what people say. She knows she’s not like everyone else, but owns her differences and is proud of who she is. This terrific message intertwines nicely with the little tale of Damara’s encounter with Drystan, who is also taught a lesson, courtesy of his new friend. The illustrations are lovely, created by the author’s partner in life and work, Mr. John Spina. The terrific team’s growing library is impressive and recommended.
Review by Deanie Humphrys-Dunne (Children’s Author): 5.0 out of 5 Stars. You’ll love Drystan and Damara’s story! Gifted author, Janice Spina has crafted another lovely book for little ones. In this second book in her series of dragon stories, Damara the little green dragon is proud of the fact she is different. She never worries about what other people think. In her travels she meets Drystan, a dragon who can’ t roar. Damara sets out to solve the problem. Did it happen because Drystan ate to many frogs, or fish? Was it something else? Damara and Drystan each learn important lessons from their experience. Young children are sure to remember this story and the messages it shares.
From The Author: I have always loved dragons! So do many children out there! That is why I wrote this book along with five other books coming in this series. These dragon books are written in rhyme with life lessons. All the dragons’ names begin with the letter ‘D’ and are of different colors. Reading these books is a fun way for children to learn the letter ‘D’ and colors while they are encouraged to be kind to one another, respect others, and it’s okay to be different.
I hope children will enjoy reading and learning from these books.
I will be publishing book 2 this year illustrated by my talented husband, John. He will illustrate two more in 2021 and in 2022 to complete the set. It was so much fun to write this series that I may do another series about another animal or mythical creature in the future.
If you enjoy this book or any of my books please write a review wherever you purchased the books. I also love to hear from readers and will post, with your permission, any reviews you write on my blog. Happy reading!
Thank you for your kind support!
Love, Janice
Product Details: Paperback: 27 Pages Publisher: Janice Spina (April 11, 2020) John Spina (Illustrator) Language: English Reading Grades: Preschool-Grade 3 Children: Fantasy (Fairy Tales and Myths) Children: Fantasy (Dragons)
Drystan the Dragon and Friends is a series of six books about dragons, friendship, being kind and respectful to one another, and helping others in need.
Children will learn about colors and letters too with the help of the colorful illustrations and rhyming verse. All the dragons’ names begin with the letter ‘D.’
In this book Drystan meets a few friends, Delbert, who has some difficulty meeting others. He is shy and not at all happy that he can disappear from view and blend in with trees.
Read how Drystan helps Delbert realize how important it is to like himself no what color he is – for all colors are beautiful!
Review by Sarah Reviews: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. A Self-Confidence Booster! In “Drystan the Dragon and Friends Series, Book 3: Delbert Finds Himself” author Janice Spina, the wonderful children’s books author, delivers again. Delbert, who is shy and lacking in self-confidence, is helped by Drystan the Dragon tor appreciate himself, overcome shyness, and learn how to make friends Lovely addition to the growing series that promotes wonderful lessons for kids of all ages. Images by the author’s talented husband are lovely
Review by Mystery “Fran”: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Be happy with who you are!Book 3 in the Drystan the Dragon and Friends Series is a gem! Delbert is a very shy, sweet dragon who is unhappy with his color. Drystan discovers Delbert hiding, and befriends him. He eventually helps his new friend realize that he is special no matter what color he is. This book imparts a very powerful message to children that inspires self-confidence and strength of character – be happy with who you are. Young children and the adults in their lives will be looking forward to meeting more of Drystan’s friends In the future!
Review by Michelle Clements James: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Even if we’re different, we’re still special. Delbert is a brown dragon who can turn blue. He is shy and likes to hide where no one can see him. He is a kind dragon. One day, he was blending in with a brown tree and moved behind a pile of stones and sticks to hide. He didn’t know that Drystan the red dragon was watching him from his cave. When Drystan approached Delbert and asked what he was doing, Delbert said, “I’m trying to hide from you.” When Drystan asked why he was hiding, Delbert replied it was because he was shy. Drystan, being helpful as a good dragon can be, told Delbert to eat blueberries. Delbert turned blue but decided he liked being brown better. He was worried that his family wouldn’t know him. Drystan told him how to turn back to brown. Delbert, being the polite and kind dragon that he was, thanked Drystan. Drystan told Delbert not to be shy because he would always be his friend and that, no matter what color he was, he would always be special.
Drystan the Dragon and Friends Series, Book 3: Delbert Finds Himself is a darling story that teaches young children to be friendly and kind and that no matter how different we look, we are still special. The author weaves all the books in this series into enchanting stories for the youngest book lovers while demonstrating an important lesson. Her books are beautifully illustrated with colorful pictures by her husband, John Spina. This book makes a perfect gift for young children in your life.
I was given a copy of this book by the author and received no compensation for my honest review
From The Author: I have always loved dragons! So do many children out there! That is why I wrote this book along with five other books coming in this series. I want children to feel good about themselves as Delbert does when he realizes after changing colors that his own color is what he is happy to be. In this troubled world children need to know it’s okay to love the skin you are in.
These dragon books are written in rhyme with life lessons. All the dragons’ names begin with the letter ‘D’ and are of different colors. Reading these books is a fun way for children to learn the letter ‘D’ and colors while they are encouraged to be kind to one another, respect others, and it’s okay to be different.
I hope children will enjoy reading and learning from these books.
I will be publishing book 2 this year illustrated by my talented husband, John. He will illustrate two more in 2021 and in 2022 to complete the set. It was so much fun to write this series that I may do another series about another animal or mythical creature in the future.
If you enjoy this book or any of my books please write a review wherever you purchased the books. I also love to hear from readers and will post any reviews you write, with your permission, on my blog. Happy reading!
Thank you for your kind support!
Love, Janice
Product Details: Paperback: 30 pages Publisher: Janice Spina; Illustrated edition (July 2, 2020) John Spina (Illustrator) Language: English Reading Grades: Preschool-Grade 3 Children: Fantasy (Fairy Tales and Myths) Children: Fantasy (Dragons)
This is a continuing fun series of adventures with Drystan the dragon and his friends.
Follow Drystan and his friends as they meet a new dragon named Delfina. Her scales are many shades of purple and pink. She can solve any problem with just a blink. She may be small but is stronger than you think.
When the other dragons meet about a problem with another dragon called Drago who is a bully, Delfina comes to their rescue and promises to help them deal with the bully.
Read what happens when Delfina meets Drago.
Review by Michele Rolfe: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Dealing with a Bully. Delfina is a small, quiet Dragon who shows the rest of the Dragons how to deal with a Bully nicely. She flies up to Drago, the Bully Dragon, with Drystan. They hope to get Drago to stop bullying everyone. What Delfina does is very nice & she & the other Dragons make a new friend! I really like Delfina’s Purple & Pink scales! I also Love how Janice teaches children how to deal with a bully in a peaceful way. I received this book in exchange for my honest review.
Product Details: Paperback: 29 Pages Publisher: Janice Spina (December 5, 2020) John Spina (Illustrator) Language: English Reading Grades: Preschool-Grade 3 Children: Fantasy (Fairy Tales and Myths) Children: Fantasy (Dragons)
In Book 5 of this magical series of Drystan the Dragon and Friends, Drago finds a way to do a good deed when he sees a rabbit in need.
Each of these books will feature a new dragon and a poem. Children will learn letters and colors with these colorfully illustrated pages.
Each dragon’s name begins with the letter ‘D’. Drago is a dragon who is completely white. He is not happy that he can’t fly at night. He is mean to his fellow dragons anywhere in sight. To be a different color he wishes with all his might. Drago learned to be kind to others every day. He is now orange, thanks to Delfina, who changed him this way.
Product Details: Paperback: 31 Pages Publisher: Janice Spina (March 28, 2021) John Spina (Illustrator) Language: English Reading Grades: Preschool-Grade 3 Children: Fantasy (Fairy Tales and Myths) Children: Fantasy (Dragons)
This is the final book in this magical, mystical series of dragons and their good deeds. In Book 6 a new dragon is introduced, Dragana. Each dragon is a different color and the dragons all have names that begin with the letter ‘D.’
Dragana is a dragon who likes to dream.
Nothing is impossible to her, so it seems.
Her scales are colored in burgundy and cream.
Fairies, goblins, and ghosts are her favorite theme.
Dragana discovers a fairy in need one day while flying around.
Will this fairy be afraid of a big dragon?
What will Dragana do to help the fairy?
Product Details: Paperback: 35 Pages Publisher: Janice Spina (August 27, 2021) John Spina (Illustrator) Language: English Reading Grades: Preschool-Grade 3 Children: Fantasy (Fairy Tales and Myths) Children: Fantasy (Dragons)
The adventures continue with dragons, creatures, and more magic. The Medallion is uncovered and something else is discovered that may have escaped from this box.
There will be more difficulties with the Quintaroons who plan something unexpected. Spindle, King Gateskin’s Head Guard, has his work cut out for him when he must keep an eye on not only the Quintaroons but also King Kaposkaran who is up to his usual evil deeds. Also, the dragons and their mistresses have returned with problems of their own on Dragonaria that will test even the power of King Gateskin.
5 Stars: The Dragon Ladies Are Back and Danger Is Coming To Sovorotskina!
This fantasy series is written primarily for ages 13-17, but adults who are young are heart, are also enjoying the ‘Gateskin Chronicles’ by Janice Spina. I find this series to be equally, if not more enchanting, as the ‘Harry Potter’ series. Don’t forget to study the ‘Map Of Territory Of Noella Province’ and the ‘Characters List’ in each book, because the author brings in new characters.
Let’s recap and move forward: In ‘The Legend Of The Taken Ones’ (Gateskin Chronicles Book One) we meetSerena Anya (age 14 is the heroine of story, sister to Simon Andolferan (age 12) and Catalina Leahna (age 10). Their mother is Solinara; Queen Fairy of Sovorotskina. Their father is Gateskin; King Wizard of Sovorotskina. Serena has the power to move objects with her mind. Simon can fly, and Catalina can become invisible. Sovorotskina (Land of Goodness & Light) was one of the villages that make up the Territory of Noella Province (later known as Votovia). The Votovians were feared by other villages that did not have fairies and wizards. The Votovians were peace-loving people, but they had the power to do whatever they had to do to protect their children and neighboring villages. Because of their powers, their children were taught five simple rules in Votovian School from the age of four. These rules would guide their lives and teach them “with powers comes responsibility”.
In ‘The Unknown Territory’ (Gateskin Chronicles Book Two) the book opens with a new breed of wolves stoking fear among the villagers, as they search for new hunting grounds.King Gateskin (powerful wizard of Sovorotskina) reassures his people; the wolves are kind and friendly. The province is not without danger though. King Gateskin created a ‘Channel Spell’ to open a connection to all the other villages except Parotovina. He kept that window closed.
In ‘Search For The Medallion’ (Gateskin Chronicles Book 3) finds King Gateskin of Sovorotskina opening the Channel Spell to conference with the other rulers of the neighboring villages. Panic is setting in as a dangerous moss is creeping into the villages which is putting livestock and others at serious risk. This is not the only danger facing King Gateskin as he struggles to protect his village. Equally as distressing as the creeping moss to King Gateskin are strangers and visitors searching his village for the allusive Medallion that everyone is talking about.
Now, the ‘Return Of The Dragons’ (Gateskin Chronicles Book 4) is finally here, the adventures with dragons, creatures, and more magic continue. King Gateskin is on alert when Spindle (his head guard) sends him a message through his mind that the dragon ladies are back. That’s not all. Things are brewing in Parotovina and King Kaposkaran is up to no good. The Sprites gather high in the treetops and sing. Their songs ring through the forest as a warning to all that danger is coming to Sovorotskina. King Gateskin is preparing for the problems ahead. He knows his training of the dragons is in danger, but that is not all. Enjoy this book and stay tuned for book five in this series!
Editorial Review and Endorsement by Book Marketing Global Network.
Product Details: Book 4 of 4: Gateskin Chronicles Print Length: 492 Pages Publisher: Janice Spina Publication Date: July 25, 2025 John Spina (Illustrator) Language: English Dragons & Mythical Creatures Fantasy Sword & Sorcery Fantasy Teen & Young Adult Science Fiction & Fantasy
King Gateskin must be vigilant to protect his land and people when another creature threatens to cause harm. He fears for his land when visitors come asking about the lost Medallion which he knows is still buried somewhere in his village of Sovorotskina.
Some of these visitors from a far-off island come in peace while another threatens the safety of Noella Province with her Dark Magic. The King must enlist all the help he can muster to protect not only his village but all of Noella Province from peril.
King Kaposkaran of Parotovina once again is a nuisance rather than a help to the other rulers of the lands in the province. He is only concerned about his own problems. Will King Kaposkaran be a hindrance or a way for the evil to enter Noella Province once again? Will King Gateskin be able to conjure up enough magic to save them all?
5 Stars: The Search For The Medallion Puts Every Villager In Danger Of Dark Magic!
‘SEARCH FOR THE MEDALLION’ (Gateskin Chronicles Book 3) continues in this exciting, magical, fantasy series for ages 13-17+. Readers will find the ‘Map Of Territory Of Noella Province’. The ‘Characters List’ in each book helps because the author brings in new characters.
Book three finds King Gateskin of Sovorotskina opening the Channel Spell to conference with the other rulers of the neighboring villages. Panic is setting in as a dangerous moss is creeping into the villages which is putting livestock and others at serious risk. This is not the only danger facing King Gateskin as he struggles to protect his village. Equally as distressing as the creeping moss to King Gateskin are strangers and visitors searching his village for the allusive Medallion that everyone is talking about.
“Gateskin rounded up every villager who had any kind of power and then stopped by to see Spindle and Mitteran to explain what needed to be done. “You are to oversee the digging and search for the Medallion. Meet the villagers who are coming from the other lands to help and get them started in plots assigned on the map.” Gateskin handed the map to them. “I will be meeting in my conference room with my Wizards and others who I will be sending your way soon.”
The two head guards nodded and flew to the site marked on the map.
The King then led the villagers with powers to his home and seated everyone before beginning his instructions. He had also summoned his Wizards to come right away. They were there in a split second after his summons and stood along the side of the conference room walls until needed.
Gateskin gazed at all the people who were gathered there and sighed. “There is much to be done. We must find the Medallion before a person from the island of Dragonaria finds it and uses it to increase her Dark Magic.”
Can King Gateskin and his search party find the Medallion?
Can enough magic be conjured up to save Sovorotskina and all the other villages?
Make sure to read Gateskin Chronicles Book One through Three of this series, so you will be ready for even more adventure, magic and fantasy coming in book four. Check out all the ‘Jems Books’ (for all ages) by Author Janice Spina.
Editorial Review and Endorsement by Book Marketing Global Network.
Review by Jjspina: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. A fantasy adventure that is an epic tale! Reviewed in the United States on May 25, 2024. Verified Purchase. This epic series is a fantasy adventure that will keep readers engrossed as new characters, unusual creatures especially colorful dragons are introduced with plenty of magic, mayhem and surprises. Will the evil forces be able to overtake the powerful King Wizard Gateskin in Noella Province? Gateskin is continually tested in this book.
I thoroughly enjoyed the addition of the dragons to this series. I look forward to more exciting adventures to come!
Review by Michelle Clements James: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Mysteries Abound in Sovorotskina. Reviewed in the United States on May 16, 2024. I’ve read many books by Janice Spina, and though I’m not usually a fan of series and prefer stand-alone books, the Gateskin Chronicles have me hooked. I anxiously await each book in the series to discover what mysterious happenings are in store for King Gateskin, his wife, Queen Solinara, and their three children in the Land of Goodness and Light, otherwise known as Sovorotskina in Noella Province.
All the characters have very unusual names, just as the various Kingdoms do. What I loved about Search For the Medallion, as well as the other books in the series, are the imaginative names for everyone and everything, the conjuring up of creatures, and fantastic talking dragons, and the spells that are cast. Even the children have powers. There are both good and evil characters and creatures with powers to do harm or good. The author’s creativity is nothing short of amazing.
Though the Gateskin Chronicles are intended for the 13-17-year-old audience, I can attest that adults will also enjoy them.
Review by Michele Rolfe: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. New visitors to the village of Sovorotskina. Reviewed in the United States on May 14, 2024. Once again King Kaposkaran of Parotovina & his wife are being nuisances again to King Gateskin & his village. While King Gateskin tries to deal with this, new visitors come to Gateskin’s village out of curiosity. They became a big help when the Catkins were getting out of control. Toss in someone with Dark Magic trying to get her hands on the Medallion, & poor King Gateskin & his family really have their hands full trying to restore order. The cliffhanger at the end makes a great lead-in for the next Book! What a wonderful, fun book! Exited for the next book in this series.
Product Details: Paperback: 600 Pages Publisher: Janice Spina (May 15, 2024) Language: EnglishDragons & Mythical Creatures Fantasy Sword & Sorcery Fantasy Teen & Young Adult Science Fiction & Fantasy
The adventures continue in this edition of Gateskin Chronicles. Many new characters and creatures are introduced. Spells abound with magic all around. Many visitors come to Sovorotskina looking for asylum from the evil King Kaposkaran of Parotovina. Will King Gateskin accept them all or even be able to trust them not to be spies for the evil King?
Serena uses her powers to assist when wolves come their way. Other creatures are also about and threaten the safety of the village.
Kaposkaran finds himself in trouble when his village is attacked by creatures. Will he turn to Gateskin for help? If he does, what will Gateskin do?
There is a spy about in Sovorotskina. Will the spy be discovered and somehow stopped from undermining the magic of King Gateskin and his family?
5 Stars: Equally Enchanting As The Harry Potter Series.
‘THE UNKNOWN TERRITORY’ (Gateskin Chronicles Book 2) continues from ‘The Legend of The Taken Ones’ (Gateskin Chronicles Book 1). The Gateskin Chronicles can be read out of succession, but you will not want to miss any of this exciting, magical, fantasy series.
I believe ages 13+ will enjoy this series, as Award-winning author, Janice Spina has an amazing way of telling the story and capturing the attention and imagination of her readers. ‘The Unknown Territory’ takes you to the TERRITORY OF NOELLA PROVINCE, which is made up of six villages, with the Sea of Shakelle off the southern borders. New characters, new creatures, new dangers, and new spells abound.
This book opens with a new breed of wolves stoking fear among the villagers, as they search for new hunting grounds.King Gateskin (powerful wizard of Sovorotskina) reassures his people; the wolves are kind and friendly. The province is not without danger though. Sovorotskina (Land of Goodness & Light), Votovia (Land of Magic & Mystery), Merona (Land of Peace & Harmony), Merlina (Land of Myths & Legends), and Amora (Land of Faith & Love), all had reason to fear Parotovina (Land of Evil & Darkness). I decided to share this quote so you will understand the true danger that exists for the TERRITORY OF NOELLA PROVINCE.
…King Gateskin created a Channel Spell to open a connection to all the other villages except Parotovina. He kept that window closed. Once he had all the rulers of the villages virtually in his Meeting Room, he called the meeting to order.
…He explained what had happened in the Village of Parotovina and the dangers they faced from the roaming Catlings.
… “We need to help Parotovina. I know all of you have had unfavorable treatment by King Kaposkaran and his guards, and so have I. But we cannot let these people suffer like this. We have to do something.”
… “Will we have to use dark magic to take out these creatures, King Gateskin?” King Cavelan asked.
… “Never! We have to try something else. Please let’s use first names only here. We are all rulers and don’t need to use the pomp and circumstance in these serious times.”
… “I agree, Gateskin,” Cavelan said.
…Noderan of the Village of Amora asked, “Do you have something in mind, Gateskin?”
… “Well, I think I can come up with a few spells with the help of all of you and my Wizards. Please let me introduce you to the former Parotovinan Wizards.”
…Gateskin spread his hands across the table and pointed out the four Wizards to the rulers. They all nodded and waited for more information about what they would be doing.
It is up to you to discover. Who is the spy in Sovorotskina? Will the spy be discovered and somehow stopped from undermining the magic of King Gateskin and his family?
‘The Gateskin Chronicles’ will take you on a magical journey, equally enchanting as the Harry Potter series. Once you begin, you will anxiously wait for the next book to be released.
Editorial Review and Endorsement by Book Marketing Global Network.
Review by Trish: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Pure magic! Reviewed in the United States on December 29, 2021. Kings and Queens, Fairies and Sprites! This story has it all. Follow the King and Queen of the Land of Goodness and Light along with their amazing children, who are coming into powers of their own. They set out with their followers and some tenacious little sprites determined to rescue the Taken Ones from the land of Parotovina and its evil king. Their skills and powers come into action during their difficult quest. The author left us with a cliff hanger for the much-anticipated book 2! An enjoyable read for all ages.
Review by Canadian Reader: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Loved the story. Reviewed in the United States on September 27, 2021. I loved The Legend of the Taken Ones by Janice Spina. It is the first book in the Gateskin Chronicles and follows the adventures of the three children of King Gateskin and his wife, Queen Solinara. This is a fantasy book so of course one of the children can fly while another has what was once known as a cloak of invisibility. Not to be outdone the third child can move objects with her mind with some form of telekinesis.
I haven’t read a fantasy book since I was a child myself, which feels like a very long time ago. But I was pleasantly surprised by how easily Spina’s writing brought me into her fantasy world. And how much I enjoyed being there. I am looking forward to more adventures in this series as I travel along with the children through Sovorotskina, the Land of Light and other magical places.
Review by Michelle Clements James: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Wizards, Fairies, Sprites, and Adventure. Reviewed in the United States on September 11, 2021. The Taken are the children of the Provence of Noella who have been missing from their homes for many, many years. They were captured by the Parotovinans to be raised under the evil king wizard. Now, King Gateskin of Sovorotskina, Land of Goodness and Light, through his wizardry learns that the Evil Ones are planning to capture the children of the Provence of Noella once again. With the help of his children, a tree sprite named Spindle, wizards, and fairies, King Gateskin goes to Parotovina to gain release of the Taken Ones. Along the way they will encounter dangerous situations.
Those who enjoy stories of wizards, fairies, sprites, and adventure will find this un-put-downable! This is not my normal genre, but I was mesmerized. The characters are beautifully detailed, and the plot is captivating. The Legend of the Taken Ones: Gateskin Chronicles, Book 1 is a five-star book! The author gave me an ARC and I have given my honest review.
Review by Mystery “Fran”: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Wizards, fairies, and sprites, oh my! Reviewed in the United States on September 5, 2021. If you are fascinated by the wizards, fairies, and little creatures who engage in battles of good versus evil, you will LOVE The Legend of the Taken Ones (Gateskin chronicles, Book 1). It has all of these and more. I quickly became engrossed in this enchanting story about King Gateskin, his family, and subjects, as they set out to rescue children who had previously been kidnapped by the evil king of Pantovina. The book is filled with memorable characters and suspenseful situations. It definitely cast a “spell” on me that kept me absorbed until the very last page! Can’t wait for the next episode of the Gateskin Chronicles!
Review by Michele Rolfe: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Very fun Wizard & Fairy book. Reviewed in the United States on September 6, 2021. An awesome series starter that introduces King Gateskin, Queen Solinara & their 3 children: Serena, Simon & Catalina. They All are very powerful Wizards & Fairies in their own right & must help their parents defend their home & surrounding lands from evil King Kaposkaran and his Queen Beregina. The cliffhanger at the end leads perfectly into book #2.
From The Author: This series began many years ago in 2009. A spark was created, and my muse worked overtime to create two books simultaneously – historical fiction and this fantasy series book 1. Once I began writing the story flowed and continued into book 2.
This isn’t my favorite genre, but my muse seems to like it and keeps coming up with new ideas for the next book. It was fun coming up with strange and complicated names for these characters, creatures, lands, and spells. Sometimes I have no idea where they come from. All I know is that they pop into my head when I need one.
Watch for books 3-6 coming over the next few years. They are epic stories with hundreds of pages. Each book grows larger than the previous one. I hope you enjoy this fantasy series and forget your troubles and fly away with Gateskin Chronicles.
Product Details: Paperback: 615 Pages Publisher: Janice Spina (July 1, 2022) Language: English Dragons & Mythical Creatures Fantasy Sword & Sorcery Fantasy Teen & Young Adult Science Fiction & Fantasy
This is Book 1 of a fantasy series that will have six books in all. In this book, learn about the three children of King Gateskin and his wife, Queen Solinara. The children have had powers since they were quite young.
Serena was three years old when she learned of her power to move objects with her mind. Her brother, Simon, can fly and their sister, Catalina, can become invisible or blend into her surroundings. They live with their parents in Sovorotskina, the Land of Light.
With these powers comes responsibility. The children must try to use their powers for the common good and responsibly to help others. The three children befriend a Sprite named Spindle who accompanies them on their adventure. Along the way they meet up with their aunt and uncle, their mother’s brother and his wife, Wizard Hotenfaran and Fairy Procelina. The group must travel into the evil land of Parotovina, Land of Darkness, to save King Gateskin, who was kidnapped, and rescue some of the descendants of their friends and fellow Sovorotskinans who were captured and taken by the Evil Ones. These descendants have been waiting a long time to be free to return to the villages of their ancestors.
The children have many trials and adventures along the way. Will they be able to rescue their father and fellow Sovorotskinans without endangering their own lives? Will the evil King Kaposkaran and his Queen Beregina stop Serena and her siblings from being successful or will they turn Serena and her siblings to their dark ways?
5 Stars: With Powers Comes Responsibility!
‘THE LEGEND OF THE TAKEN ONES’ is book one of six planned in the ‘Gateskin Chronicles’. Award-winning Author, Janice Spina, is writing this fantasy series for ages 13-17, but I can attest to the fact, adults will enjoy it too.
Serena Anya (age 14 is the heroine of story, sister to Simon Andolferan (age 12) and Catalina Leahna (age 10). Their mother is Solinara; Queen Fairy of Sovorotskina. Their father is Gateskin; King Wizard of Sovorotskina. Serena has the power to move objects with her mind. Simon can fly, and Catalina can become invisible. With these powers comes responsibility.
Sovorotskina (Land of Goodness & Light) was one of the villages that make up the Territory of Noella Province (later known as Votovia). The other villages are Votovia (Land of Magic & Mystery), Merona (Land of Peace & Harmony), Merlina (Land of Myths & Legends), Amora (Land of Faith & Love), and Parotovina (Land of Evil & Darkness).
I think to understand the story you must understand the ‘Votovians’. The Votovians were feared by other villages that did not have fairies and wizards. The Votovian children were taught these five simple rules in Votovian School from the age of four. They used rhymes and simple language so that the youngest children could understand the rules.
Rule#1: Never use your powers to hurt anyone (not even to injure, move or hurt even flowers).
Rule#2: Help your fellow villagers out in any way you can.
Rule#3: Always band together for the common good.
Rule#4: Above all, protect the children. If danger comes, fast we will flee, and stay together using our powers only in an emergency.
Rule#5: Powers are to be used in emergency situations if agreed upon only by the governing council with final approval of the King and Queen of Votovia.
The Votovians were all hoping they would never have to use their powers. Their powers collectively were so strong they could destroy everyone in their path. They were a peace-loving people, and this did not come easy for them, but they would do whatever they had to do to protect their children and the children of their friends in Sovorotskina and any of the other neighboring villages.
I will let you discover on your own ‘THE LEGEND OF THE TAKEN ONES’. I highly recommend Gateskin Chronicles, Book 1. Author Janice Spina always has valuable lessons in her storylines, which make her stories true ‘Jems’. Janice has written 19 children’s books and has multiple series, for ages 10 and up.
Editorial Review and Endorsement by Book Marketing Global Network.
Review by Trish: 5.0 out of 5 Stars: Pure magic! Reviewed in the United States on December 29, 2021. Kings and Queens, Fairies and Sprites! This story has it all. Follow the King and Queen of the Land of Goodness and Light along with their amazing children, who are coming into powers of their own. They set out with their followers and some tenacious little sprites determined to rescue the Taken Ones from the land of Parotovina and it’s evil king. Their skills and powers come into action during their difficult quest. The author left us with a cliff hanger for the much-anticipated book 2! An enjoyable read for all ages.
Reviews by Canadian Reader: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Loved the story. Reviewed in the United States on September 27, 2021. I loved The Legend of the Taken Ones by Janice Spina. It is the first book in the Gateskin Chronicles and follows the adventures of the three children of King Gateskin and his wife, Queen Solinara. This is a fantasy book so of course one of the children can fly while another has what was once known as a cloak of invisibility. Not to be outdone the third child can move objects with her mind with some form of telekinesis.
I haven’t read a fantasy book since I was a child myself, which feels like a very long time ago. But I was pleasantly surprised by how easily Spina’s writing brought me into her fantasy world. And how much I enjoyed being there. I am looking forward to more adventures in this series as I travel along with the children through Sovorotskina, the Land of Light and other magical places.
Review by Michelle Clements James: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Wizards, Fairies, Sprites, and Adventure. Reviewed in the United States on September 11, 2021. The Taken are the children of the Provence of Noella who have been missing from their homes for many, many years. They were captured by the Parotovinans to be raised under the evil king wizard. Now, King Gateskin of Sovorotskina, Land of Goodness and Light, through his wizardry learns that the Evil Ones are planning to capture the children of the Provence of Noella once again. With the help of his children, a tree sprite named Spindle, wizards, and fairies, King Gateskin goes to Parotovina to gain release of the Taken Ones. Along the way they will encounter dangerous situations.
Those who enjoy stories of wizards, fairies, sprites, and adventure will find this un-put-downable! This is not my normal genre, but I was mesmerized. The characters are beautifully detailed, and the plot is captivating. The Legend of the Taken Ones: Gateskin Chronicles, Book 1 is a five-star book! The author gave me an ARC and I have given my honest review.
Review by Mystery “Fran”: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Wizards, fairies, and sprites, oh my! Reviewed in the United States on September 5, 2021. If you are fascinated by the wizards, fairies, and little creatures who engage in battles of good versus evil, you will LOVE The Legend of the Taken Ones (Gateskin chronicles, Book 1). It has all of these and more. I quickly became engrossed in this enchanting story about King Gateskin, his family, and subjects, as they set out to rescue children who had previously been kidnapped by the evil king of Pantovina. The book is filled with memorable characters and suspenseful situations. It definitely cast a “spell” on me that kept me absorbed until the very last page! Can’t wait for the next episode of the Gateskin Chronicles!
Review by Michele Rolfe: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Very fun Wizard & Fairy book. Reviewed in the United States on September 6, 2021. An awesome series starter that introduces King Gateskin, Queen Solinara & their 3 children: Serena, Simon & Catalina. They All are very powerful Wizards & Fairies in their own right & must help their parents defend their home & surrounding lands from evil King Kaposkaran and his Queen Beregina. The cliffhanger at the end leads perfectly into book #2.
Product Details: Print Length: 500 Pages Publisher: Janice Spina; 1st Edition (August 28, 2021) John Spina (Illustrator) Language: English Dragons & Mythical Creatures Fantasy Sword & Sorcery Fantasy Teen & Young Adult Science Fiction & Fantasy
About The Author: Janice Spina is a multi-award-winning author with 47 ‘Jems Books’ of which there are 22 children’s books, 12 MG/PT books and three books in a YA series with three more coming over the next few years, nine novels and a short story collection for 18+ written under J.E. Spina. She is also a copy editor, blogger, book reviewer and supporter of fellow authors. Her husband, John, is her illustrator and cover creator. Watch for more books to come over the next few years.
Jance has received the following awards for her books:
12 Mom’s Choice Awards – Silver Medals, 5 Readers’ Favorite Book Awards – Silver Medal, Bronze Medal, Honorable Mention and Finalist, 21 Pinnacle Book Achievement Awards, 1 AUTHORSDB – Cover Contest, 2 Book Excellence Award Finalists, 2 Top Shelf Awards – First Place & Runner up and 1 Media crest Awards.
Her logo is Jemsbooks – books for all ages! Her motto is – Reading Gives You Wings to Fly! Come soar with Jemsbooks.com! Happy Reading!
Broose the Moose on the Loose: (Pinnacle Book Achievement Award).
Sebastian Meets Marvin the Monkey: (Pinnacle Book Achievement Award).
Colby the Courageous Cat: (Pinnacle Book Achievement Award).
Jeffrey the Jittery Giraffe: (Pinnacle Book Achievement Award).
Clarence Henry the Hermit Crab: (Pinnacle Book Achievement Award).
Lucy the Talented Toy Terrier: (Mom’s Choice Awards – Silver Medal).
The First Star: (Mom’s Choice Awards – Silver Medal).
Drystan the Dragon and Friends Series Book 1: Drystan and Durward Save the Day (Pinnacle Book Achievement Awards Top Shelf Awards – Runners-up).
Drystan the Dragon and Friends Series Book 2: Damara Helps Drystan Find His Roar (Pinnacle Book Achievement Awards).
Drystan the Dragon and Friends Series Book 3: Delbert Finds Himself (Mom’s Choice Awards – Silver Medal).
Drystan the Dragon and Friends Series Book 4: Delfina Solves a Problem (Pinnacle Book Achievement Awards).
Drystan the Dragon and Friends Series Book 5: Drago Does a Good Deed (Pinnacle Book Achievement Awards).
Drystan the Dragon and Friends Series Book 6: Dragana Helps a Fairy (Mom’s Choice Awards – Silver Medal).
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BOOKS FOR CHILDREN AGES 5-8 BY JANICE SPINA.
Make Believe: Bedtime Stories for Children Book 1 (Mom’s Choice Awards – Silver Medal).
Make Believe is Fun: Bedtime Stories for Children Book 2 (Mom’s Choice Awards – Silver Medal).
Make Believe Again: Bedtime Stories for Children Book 3 (Mom’s Choice Awards – Silver Medal).
Makie Believe Once Again: Bedtime Stories for Children Book 4 (Mom’s Choice Awards – Silver Medal).
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MIDDLE-GRADE/PRETEEN BOOKS – 10+ BY JANICE SPINA (Middle-Grade/Preteen/Young Adult).
Davey & Derek Junior Detectives Book 1: The Case of the Missing Cell Phone (Pinnacle Book Achievement Award & Honorable Mention- Readers’ Favorite Book Award).
Davey & Derek Junior Detectives Book 2: The Case of the Mysterious Black Cat (Pinnacle Book Achievement Award).
Davey & Derek Junior Detectives Book 3: The Case of the Magical Ivory Elephant (Pinnacle Book Achievement Award & Reader’s Favorite Book Awards – Silver Medal).
Davey & Derek Junior Detectives Book 4: The Case of the Brown Scraggly Dog (Top Shelf Awards – First Place & Finalist in Red City Review Awards & 5-Star Book Review – Readers’ Favorite Book Awards).
Davey & Derek Junior Detectives Book 5: The Case of the Sad Mischievous Ghost (Pinnacle Book Achievement Award & Authorsdb Cover Contest – Silver Medal).
Davey & Derek Junior Detectives Book 6: The Case of the Mystery of the Bells (Pinnacle Book Achievement Award & Finalist – Readers’ Favorite Book Awards & Finalist – Book Excellence Awards).
Abby & Holly School Dance (Pinnacle Book Achievement Award & Bronze Medal from Readers’ Favorite Book Awards).
Abby & Holly Series Book 2: Unfortunate Events (Pinnacle Book Achievement Award & Readers’ Favorite Book Awards – Honorable Mention).
Abby & Holly Series, Book 3: Secrets of the Trunk (Pinnacle Book Achievement Award).
Abby & Holly Series, Book 4: The Hidden Stairway (Pinnacle Book Achievement Award).
Abby & Holly Series, Book 5: The Copper Key (Pinnacle Book Achievement Award).
Abby & Holly Series, Book 6: Faulty Timeline (Pinnacle Book Achievement Award).
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BOOKS FOR YOUNG ADULTS (13+) BY JANICE SPINA.
The Legend of the Taken Ones: Gateskin Chronicles Book 1 (Book Excellence Award & Mom’s Choice Awards – Gold Medal).
The Unknown Territory: Gateskin Chronicles Book 2 (Mom’s Choice Awards – Gold Medal & Maincrest Media Book Award).
Search for the Medallion: Gateskin Chronicles Book 3 (Mom’s Choice Awards – Gold Medal).
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BOOKS BY J.E. SPINA FOR 18+.
Hunting Mariah-Maincrest Media Award-2024
Mariah’s Revenge
How Far is Heaven
An Angel Among Us: A Short Story Collection
In A Second
Lubelia Alycea: One Hundred Years
The Misunderstood Angel: Branyrd the Angel Series Book 1
Her logo is Jemsbooks – books for all ages! Her motto is – Reading Gives You Wings to Fly! Come soar with Jemsbooks! Happy reading!
Janice’s hobbies besides writing are crocheting, exercising to keep in shape, going to the movies with her husband or out to lunch or dinner, reading, book reviewing, blogging, and spending time with her five grandchildren who are her writing inspiration.
Janice loves to hear from readers and appreciates and happily welcomes reviews.
Janice Spina aka J.E. Spina: Multi-Award-Winning Author Jemsbooks for All Ages! Mom’s Choice Award Winner!
This is a short story collection for children ages 5-8. They are perfect for bedtime or any time. They can be read by early readers or by a parent/guardian. They will provide a fun reading time for both the reader and the listener.
There are six stories with a colorful illustration of the characters of each story – one about an alien, a dragon, a fairy, a bear, a bear and a boy and a skunk. Each story will have life lessons for children to learn.
5 Stars: Unique Bedtime Fantasy Stories For Age 5-8!
This unique, educational short story collection brings wonderful fantasy to children ages 5-8. Each story has a colorful character, brightly illustrated on the stories title page. Children will learn a valuable life lesson with each story. As the child reads or hears the stories, their imagination will come to life; with a blue alien named: Bluripizig, a green dragon named; Russell, a little fairy in a pink dress, a brown bear named; Shular, Marco; the boy who couldn’t swim, and of course, an adorable white skunk with a story you will not want to miss.
Award winning author, Janice Spina, writes make-believe stories that children can relate to about animals and other creatures. She hopes adults will enjoy reading these bedtime stories to the children in their lives. Janice has written 19 children’s books. She has multiple series, for ages 10+. Her Mariah series along with a couple stand-alone books, are for ages 18+. Her ‘Gateskin Chronicles’ series for age 15+ has just arrived.
Janice Spina is a retired administrative secretary from a public school system in Massachusetts. I highly recommend her books. Her books should be placed in school and community libraries. As adults it is our job to make it possible for all children to read books and encourage reading time. Janice Spina’s books make great year-round gifts for children of all ages.
Editorial Review and Endorsement by Book Marketing Global Network.
Review by Perspective Power, Annette Rochelle Aben: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Enjoyable Learning Experiences. Reviewed in the United States on June 2, 2022. Verified Purchase. Entertainment and education are a winning combination. Memorable characters and easy-to-understand stories create another winning combination. Combine all this with clever illustrations, and you have the latest children’s book from Award-Winning Author Janice Spina! Download a copy today, and it can become a bedtime favorite starting tonight.
Review by Trish: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Fun and enjoyable! Reviewed in the United States on February 10, 2023. These bedtime stories are perfect to read with your children. The book is made up of individual stories which are short enough to be completed every night. They are not only entertaining but at the same time teach children the meaning of kindness and friendship to others. Very nicely done!
Message From The Author: I put together this collection of short stories which I wrote several years ago for children after I stumbled upon them recently. I decided to write a few more and put them together in one book. This is a different format from my other children’s books. My husband, John, created the illustrations that brought my stories to life.
By having one illustration for each story I could incorporate more stories into one book. Children will have six books for the price of one in this new collection. I added the illustration to the beginning of each page so children won’t have to go back to the first page to look at the characters.
These stories are perfect for early readers or enjoyed together with parent/guardian at bedtime or any time. I hope you and your children will enjoy these stories and keep reading them often. I plan to do a few more books with more entertaining and fun stories for children to enjoy.
Product Details: Paperback: 81 Pages Publisher: Janice Spina (June 1, 2022) John Spina (Illustrator) Language: English Children: Short Story Collection Reading Age: 5-8 Years Children: Bedtime Stories MG/PT BOOKS FOR 10+
This is book 2 of the Bedtime Stories for Children Series. There are six tales with an illustration for each. Children will read about two squirrels, a turkey, a frog, a tree, a leopard and mouse, and a cat. These animal tales will delight children and become their favorite bedtime stories.
Each story carries life lessons that will help children understand about the importance of friendship, helping others in need, family, and it’s okay to be different.
5 Stars: Dedicated To All Children Who Love To Make Believe.
Make Believe Is Fun (Book 2), continues from Make Believe: Bedtime Stories (Book 1);with beautiful cover art, and adorable story illustrations, produced by Janice Spina’s husband John.
Ollie and Nolan: One day Ollie and Nolan, two little squirrels who are brothers, went out into the forest to forage for something tasty to eat. Ollie was the older brother. He liked to tease his younger brother about everything they did together. Ollie loved finding acorns and always wanted to find more than Nolan. Find out more about these brothers.
The Turkey Who Could Growl: Terrence is a turkey who is different than other turkeys. His plumes are in shades of blue instead of all brown and black. He has dark gray eyes and a long tail that skims the ground as he walks that he can fan out in a wide half circle around his body. Find out how Terrence relates to a bear.
Freddie the Frog: Freddie the frog lived in a ten-gallon fish tank. The only other occupants were four striped tetras. They got along just fine until one day…. This true story is based on real frog living with Janice and John.
The Little Tree: There once was a little tree in the forest of many trees. This little tree was tired of trying to stretch itself up to reach the warmth of the sun. There were so many other trees that were taller, bigger, and full of branches that snuffed out the sun as it shone down on the forest. If the little tree didn’t get enough sun he could wither and die. Read how Embry comes to the rescue.
Leo the Leopard and the Mouse: Leo was a leopard cub. He was only a couple of weeks old when his mother woke him up from his daily nap. “It’s time for you to learn how to take care of yourself in the wild, Leo. There is much you need to know about living in the jungle. This story is dedicated to Janice and John’s great nephew, Leo, who loves leopards.
Tyler the Cat and the Wind Chimes: Tyler the cat walked along the wall at the back of his house one day. He always wanted to visit some of the other houses along the beach road. He had heard some sounds that he did not recognize and decided it was time to check them out. Find out what special friendship was made, when Tyler went to check out the new sound.
Award winning author, Janice Spina, writes make-believe stories that children can relate to about animals and other creatures. She hopes adults will enjoy reading these bedtime stories to the children in their lives. I highly recommend her books. Her books should be placed in school and community libraries. As adults it is our job to make it possible for all children to read books and encourage reading time. Janice Spina’s books make great year-round gifts for children of all ages.
Editorial Review and Endorsement by Book Marketing Global Network.
Review by Mystery “Fran”: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Perfect Stories to Share with Children!Reviewed in the United States on February 4, 2023. “Make Believe Is Fun” is a collection of short bedtime stories for children that are a cross between folk tales and fables. The stories’ main characters, all animals, get into various situations which get resolved through the magic of make believe. I love that there are timely themes woven into each story, such as kindness, friendship, bravery, and love – perfect for the author ‘s targeted audience, children ages 5 – 8. Also great for initiating discussions with them about them about these themes.. I know my granddaughters will love the animals and the colorful illustrations!
Review by Michele Rolfe: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Another great Children’s Stories. Reviewed in the United States on January 27, 2023. I love the illustrations for each story. Each story is a wonderful new lesson for little ones. The characters are fun & relatable for little ones. I was given a copy for my honest review.
Message From The Author: This is book 2 in a 4-book series for children ages 5-8. It’s perfect for early readers and read alongs with parents/guardians at bedtime or any time.
Each story is a stand-alone tale that will delight children with the lovely illustration for each created by my husband, John. As in all my children’s books there are important life lessons that children will learn about family, friendship, being kind to others in need, that it’s okay to be different and that we are all special in our own unique way.
I hope these stories will become your children’s/grandchildren’s favorite bedtime stories each night. Happy Reading! Watch for more books in this series.
Product Details: Paperback: 98 Pages Publisher: Janice Spina (January 10, 2023) John Spina (Illustrator) Language: English Children: Short Story Collection Reading Age: 5-8 Years Children: Bedtime Stories MG/PT BOOKS FOR 10+
Bedtime Stories for Children is back again with six more fun and entertaining stories for children ages 5-8. In this book children will read about a porcupine and a beaver, a snake, a deer, a fox and baby bluebird, a cow and a horse.
Each story carries important life lessons such as helping others in need, being kind to others, friendship is important, and it’s okay to be different.
5-Stars: Animal characters come to life with six exciting stories to tell and life lessons to learn, for children 5-8 years old.
Delight your children and grandchildren this summer (or anytime) with the ‘Make Believe Bedtime Story’ series by Award-Winning Children’s Author Janice Spina.
This is Book 3 in the series. The illustrations by Dr. John Spina will capture your child’s imagination, as animal characters come to life with six exciting stories to tell, for children 5-8 years old.
…Find out what happens when Paulie the porcupine meets Bud the beaver. See how surprise and even fear of the unknown, quickly turns into a friendship.
…Discover how a boy and a garden snake become friends, when the boy helps free the snake from a hole in the fence, where the snake is stuck.
…Learn how two deer help each other, when Davis the dizzy deer needs help from his best friend, Dante.
…Read how a Finley, a friendly baby fox, and a determined mother bluebird, work together to rescue her baby from the base of a tree.
…How does Cassie the cow, who has lost her moo, rescue the herd from danger, and get her moo back?
…Finally, a little girl named Lorelei becomes friends with a Clydesdale horse. She helps him overcome his worries and insecurity about being hairier than the other horses.
Parents, grandparents, and educators hold the key to our next generation of readers, thinkers, and leaders. I encourage you to purchase all Jemsbooks by Janice Spina. Each book is age-appropriate, educational reading, that will keep your children engaged, entertained, and build on their reading and vocabulary skills. Give children the tools they need for success in life.
Editorial Review and Endorsement by Book Marketing Global Network.
Review by Jjspina: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Fun & educational stories with life lessons! Reviewed in the United States on August 14, 2023. Verified Purchase. A fun and educational book for ages 5-8 that will keep children engaged and happy while learning new words about different things and animals. Important life lessons are in all six stories. Another great addition to your young children’s libraries.
The Bedtime Stories series is here once again with six more fun and entertaining stories for children ages 5-8. In this book children will read about a dragonfly, a goat, a candle, a chicken and a rooster, a boy and a pelican and a fish, and a starfish.
Each story carries important life lessons such as helping others in need, being kind to others, it’s okay to be different, family matters more than riches or being famous, friends are important, and be the best you can be.
5-Stars: Make Bedtime Enjoyable with Book 4 In This ‘Jemsbooks’ Bedtime Story Series for Children 5-8 Years Old.
Your children and grandchildren will be excited to get into bed when ‘Jembooks’ by Award-Winning Children’s Author Janice Spina, are on their bedside table. This is book 4 in the Make Believe: Bedtime Stories for Children 5-8 years old. Janice masterfully brings the animal characters to life in six unique stories. The beautiful illustrations were designed by Dr. John Spina.
DEIDRA THE DARING DRAGONFLY: Bring imagination to life, as your child reads about the little girl named Aloisa, who becomes friends with Deidra, a daring, mystical dragonfly.
GRIFFIN THE GOAT WHO SAVED THE TREES: Griffin the goat who has no special talents at all, discovers delicious vines growing around the bark on the maple trees. Griffin is startled when the maple tree starts telling him about the dangerous plight of vines. Griffin tells the billies and nannies how delicious the vines are, and impresses the farmer by saving the maple trees. Janice puts an educational note for parents and guardians about the Bittersweet vine or Oriental Bittersweet is an invasive plant. It is native to China, Japan, and Korea. It was introduced to the United States around 1860 as an ornamental plant. She shared photos of bittersweet in her backyard, on her fence.
THE MAGIC CANDLE: An old shop owner learns a valuable lesson from a crooked candle that no one wants to buy.
CLARA THE SINGING CHICKEN: Clara the chicken has a point to make. She wants to prove she can sing. She does not want to be famous or leave the farm. She wants Rodney the rooster and others to take her seriously.
A BOY, A PELICAN, AND A FISH: Janice engages children and parents with this story about a family’s vacation to Aruba. Neo is turning seven soon, he makes friends with a Pelican named Pete, and a fish while experiencing the ocean for the first time.
CHIP THE LONELY STARFISH: Janice writes this story in memory ofthe many starfish she had in her own saltwater tanks. She shares two photos of the latest chocolate chip starfish she had, as the little girl named Bria in this story, becomes friends with a starfish.
I love how Author Janice Spina engages both children and adults alike in these amazing short stories. Janice has a gift for storytelling intertwined with education. She hares tidbits that will bring parents/guardians and children closer together, as they read and learn about the world around them. Janice Spina’s Jemsbooks should be in every child’s library.
Editorial Review and Endorsement by Book Marketing Global Network.
Review by Jjspina: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Interesting and educational stories for children! Reviewed in the United States on August 29, 2023. Verified Purchase. Another fun book of short stories for children to read at bedtime or any time. A perfect addition to your child’s library with stories that will teach children important life lessons while having fun reading.
Product Details: Paperback: 98 Pages Publisher: Janice Spina (July 24, 2023) John Spina (Illustrator) Language: English Children: Short Story Collection Reading Age: 5-8 Years Children: Bedtime Stories MG/PT BOOKS FOR 10+
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,570 Book Two Of ‘The Last Of The Atlanteans’ Is Finally Here! How The World Ended Millennia Ago Series. Ithyanna, Last Daughter of Atlantis by Don Edward Cook. Book 1 of 2: The Last of the Atlanteans. How The World Ended Millennia Ago Series. IN THE DAYS OF NOAH,… Continue reading →
AN AVENGING PRINCESS Alecia is determined to protect her people from her tyrannical father. Her only worth is to have a son, who will be heir to the kingdom. A DANGEROUS SHIFTERVard is tasked with guarding a princess who refuses to be shielded from danger. His dark secret could spell the end of the woman he’s sworn to protect. And yet, when thrown together, neither of them can deny the forbidden attraction. As their lives spin out of control, will love be enough to pull them from the vortex and perhaps save the kingdom?
Princess Avenger is the first book in the epic Queenmakers Saga, combining the sweeping high fantasy world of Thorius with sizzling romance. If you like magic, political intrigue and mythical creatures, wrapped up in a ‘beauty and the beast’ love story, then you’ll adore Princess Avenger.
***This book contains sex scenes and is intended for mature readers. ***
Review: Recipe for a captivating fantasy novel – fast-paced adventure, romance, a strong hero and an equally strong heroine, wrapped in a fine layer of magic. It is an easy read, with a lot of great imagery and well-turned phrases sprinkled throughout, that paint the perfect moment along the storyline. Hooked from the first page I eagerly devoured this book! Both the Princess and her guard have their share of secrets that come crashing together in a glorious story. From the first paragraph, Bernadette Rowley’s Princess Avenger grabs you and will not let you go! I stayed up all night reading. Rowley’s fantasy world-building is exciting and engaging, and her characters are strong and relatable. What a find! From the moment I started reading I was captivated. Couldn’t put it down. Look forward to reading more from this author.
Product Details: Paperback: 204 Pages Publisher: Bernadette Rowley Fantasy (November 10, 2019) Language: English Fantasy (Action & Adventure) Fantasy (Adult & College Age) Fantasy (Dragons & Mythical Creatures) Fantasy (Epic Romance) Fantasy (Fairy Tales) Fantasy (Metaphysical & Visionary) Fantasy (Sword & Sorcery) Romance (Action-Drama) Romance (Gothic) Romance (Paranormal)
THE PERFECT PLAN With her people on the brink of starvation, Lady Benae Branasar devises a daring rescue. She will marry powerful Prince Jiseve of Brightcastle and use his fortune to save her estates. But first she must compete against three princesses equally determined to win his hand. A DANGEROUS DISTRACTION When she finds herself drawn to her reluctant escort, the prince’s squire Ramón Zorba, her plans begin to unravel.
Ramón is dealing with problems of his own, but as he thaws, Benae glimpses the devastating man beneath. The more time they spend together, the harder Benae finds it to focus on her objective. Will she stay true to her people? Or will love and fate intervene?
The Lady’s Choice is the second book in the epic Queenmakers Saga, blending the sweeping high fantasy world of Thorius with sizzling romance. If you like magic, court intrigue and mythical creatures, wrapped up in a “marriage of convenience gone wrong” romance, you’ll love The Lady’s Choice.
This book contains sex scenes and is intended for mature readers.
Review: This is one intense, electrifying tale that captures your attention from start to finish. The characters are authentic, impressive and realistic with such depth and personality its easy to relate. The scenes are written with such realism, there’s no trouble interpreting each scenario as they play off one another perfectly. Royal intrigue, combined with vying for the king’s hand in marriage almost reminiscent of episodes of “The Bachelor” on TV, and a lot of sexual tension make this book different from the first one in the series. And what about Ramon and his unrequited love for Princes Alecia. You’ll just have to read the book and discover for yourselves, because I’m not telling.
Review: This is one intense, electrifying tale that captures your attention from start to finish. The characters are authentic, impressive and realistic with such depth and personality its easy to relate. The scenes are written with such realism, there’s no trouble interpreting each scenario as they play off one another perfectly. Royal intrigue, combined with vying for the king’s hand in marriage almost reminiscent of episodes of “The Bachelor” on TV, and a lot of sexual tension make this book different from the first one in the series. And what about Ramon and his unrequited love for Princes Alecia. You’ll just have to read the book and discover for yourselves, because I’m not telling.
Product Details: Paperback: 242 Pages Publisher: Bernadette Rowley Fantasy (November 21, 2019) Language: English Fantasy (Action & Adventure) Fantasy (Adult & College Age) Fantasy (Dragons & Mythical Creatures) Fantasy (Epic Romance) Fantasy (Fairy Tales) Fantasy (Metaphysical & Visionary) Fantasy (Sword & Sorcery) Romance (Action-Drama) Romance (Gothic) Romance (Paranormal)
A PRINCESS OF THE PEOPLE IN SELF-IMPOSED EXILE Nothing could prepare Alecia for what she faces as she leaves all she has known behind and embraces a future with her rescuer. A TORMENTED SHAPESHIFTER, DESPERATE TO DEFEND THE WOMAN HE LOVES Vard Anton fights both external forces and the least controllable of his forms – the bear.
The lovers travel to a lost city, hoping a sorcerer there may help Vard master his transformations. They soon discover this mentor has his own devious agenda. Will Vard and Alecia escape? Can their love survive Alecia’s fear of Vard’s animal forms? What secret does the princess hold with the power to destroy Vard’s trust? The answers to all this and more are contained in the pages of Princess in Exile, the dark sequel to Princess Avenger.
Princess in Exile is the third book in the epic Queenmakers Saga, combining the sweeping high fantasy world of Thorius with sizzling romance. If you like magic, political intrigue and mythical creatures, wrapped up in a ‘beauty and the beast’ love story, then you’ll adore Princess in Exile.
This book contains sex scenes and is intended for mature readers.
Reviews: “All the drama, angst, danger and suspense make for one thrilling experience.” “This was a riveting story. The author’s characterization and the plot drew me through the book. Great follow-up to the first story in the series.” “Ah! The tension grows in this fast-paced sequel to The Princess Avenger. Princess in Exile is fast, tight, and full of action and drama. It kept me turning pages until the end in a short period of time.” “This is A Must Read. I loved it. If you like magic and shifters, and battles you will love this.”
Product Details: Paperback: 182 Pages Publisher: Bernadette Rowley Fantasy (January 6, 2020) Language: English Fantasy (Action & Adventure) Fantasy (Adult & College Age) Fantasy (Dragons & Mythical Creatures) Fantasy (Epic Romance) Fantasy (Fairy Tales) Fantasy (Metaphysical & Visionary) Fantasy (Sword & Sorcery) Romance (Action-Drama) Romance (Gothic) Romance (Paranormal)
A DESPERATE MERMAID, determined to flee her people and create a new life. Merielle has rejected her family and gambled her future on inducing a human man to fall in love with her.AN EXILED SEA CAPTAIN, sworn to avenge a devastating loss. Nikolas blames the monstrous sea nymphs for his brother’s disappearance but when he finds an injured mermaid on his beach, he agrees to help her.
Despite his hate for the mer people, Nik is increasingly drawn to Meri, who slowly works her way into his damaged heart. Will Nik break the laws of land and sea to be with Meri or will the devastating secret she holds crush their tumultuous relationship.
The Lord and the Mermaid is the fourth book in the epic Queenmakers Saga, combining the sweeping high fantasy world of Thorius with sizzling romance. If you like magic, political intrigue and mythical creatures, wrapped up in a dark and sexy retelling of The Little Mermaid, then you’ll adore The Lord and the Mermaid.
***This book contains sex scenes and is intended for mature readers.***
PRAISE FOR THE LORD AND THE MERMAID
***** This series gets better and better with each book. The fourth book brings even more of the kingdom to light. Plus, we get to see more of previous characters we’ve been introduced to. I love tales of mermaids and this one had such a deep story behind the love formed between Meri and Nik. Nik’s past is dark and so filled with pain. I can’t wait to see more of this couple as the series continues.
***** Retelling of The Little Mermaid is better than the original and Disney!
Reviews-PRAISE FOR THE LORD AND THE MERMAID:
5 Stars. This series gets better and better with each book. The fourth book brings even more of the kingdom to light. Plus, we get to see more of previous characters we’ve been introduced to. I love tales of mermaids and this one had such a deep story behind the love formed between Meri and Nik. Nik’s past is dark and so filled with pain. I can’t wait to see more of this couple as the series continues.
5 Stars. Retelling of The Little Mermaid is better than the original and Disney!
Product Details: Paperback: 250 Pages Publisher: Bernadette Rowley Fantasy (February 13, 2020) Language: English Fantasy (Action & Adventure) Fantasy (Adult & College Age) Fantasy (Dragons & Mythical Creatures) Fantasy (Epic Romance) Fantasy (Fairy Tales) Fantasy (Metaphysical & Visionary) Fantasy (Sword & Sorcery) Romance (Action-Drama) Romance (Gothic) Romance (Paranormal)
AN ALLURING HEALER Lady Alique Zorba is as beautiful as she is impulsive, and she’s determined to rescue her family and kingdom from the dark elven menace. A PRAGMATIC GENERAL Kain Jazara has no idea of the explosive revelations hanging over his head, as he tackles the latest incursion of the dark elves into Thorius. But must he be lumbered with highborn healer, Alique when she’ll only get in his way?
When the two volunteer to become hostages so the innocent can be freed, little do they know they’re about to embark on the first of many missions together; assignments where neither can guarantee the other’s safety. As they discover an undeniable passion, will revelations from Kain’s past destroy Thorius, his relationships and any chance of happiness?
The Elf King’s Lady is the fifth book in the epic Queenmakers Saga, combining the sweeping high fantasy world of Thorius with sizzling romance. If you like magic, political intrigue and mythical creatures, wrapped up in an inter-racial love story, then you’ll adore The Elf King’s Lady.
This book contains sex scenes and is intended for mature readers.
5 Star Reviews on Amazon: I wasn’t a big fan of Lady Alique Zorba in previous books, but in The Elf King’s Lady, you really get to know her. I was a fan of what I found. Factor in the gruff General Jazara, and tempers ignite. This might be one of my favorite books in the series thus far. An enjoyable read for sure!
Another great story line with endearing characters to love. Just a fun series to read and enjoy. Definitely recommend.
This series just gets better and better with each book. This book was action packed and the plot moved quickly and easily throughout.
Product Details: Paperback: 250 Pages Publisher: Bernadette Rowley Fantasy (April 25, 2020) Language: English Fantasy (Action & Adventure) Fantasy (Adult & College Age) Fantasy (Dragons & Mythical Creatures) Fantasy (Epic Romance) Fantasy (Fairy Tales) Fantasy (Metaphysical & Visionary) Fantasy (Sword & Sorcery) Romance (Action-Drama) Romance (Gothic) Romance (Paranormal)
5-Star Award For The Lady and The Pirate by Bernadette Rowley!
The Lady and The Pirate by Bernadette Rowley.
An Epic Fantasy Romance Novel.
Queenmakers Saga Series Book Six.
Two unlikely lovers… the ocean their playground… saved by desire.
AN IMPOVERISHED NOBLEWOMAN. Lady Esta Aranati will do anything to ensure the safety of her estate and its people, even to smuggling on the high seas. She leads a double life, a mask and wig the only shields that protect her reputation. A DARING PIRATE. Samael Delacost roams the ocean, living off the hard work of others, ignoring the voice that whispers ‘you don’t belong’. Until one night, Sam boards Esta’s ship and discovers she’s no easy prey.
Thrown together by a treasure hunt, the unlikely partners strike sparks off each other. Against her better judgment, Esta tries to help Sam find his mother, but what she discovers will change their lives forever. Can Sam and Esta find their way through danger, political intrigue and societal rules to forge a life together? Or will their differences and their pasts dictate the future?
A swashbuckling fantasy romance, begun on the high seas but sealed in the King’s Court
The Lady and the Pirate is the sixth book in the epic Queenmakers Saga, combining the sweeping high fantasy world of Thorius with sizzling romance. If you like magic, political intrigue and sexy pirates, wrapped up in an adventure on the high seas, then you’ll adore The Lady and the Pirate.
This book contains sex scenes and is intended for mature readers.
5 Stars: Unlikely Lovers, Saved by Desire!
Amazing story telling by Bernadette Rowley brings the reader into Lady Esta Aranati’s double life.
I think you will benefit from the meaning of these two terms upfront. Lenweri (the elven people, they have dark skin, pointed ears and are tall and elegant) and Sis Lenweri (the faction of dark elves that wishes to take over the kingdom of Thorius).
Chapter one opens with some suspense aboard the ‘Sea Sprite’ when captain, Lady Esta Aranti’s first mate wakes her up from deep sleep to inform her they have a visitor on board. I quote: “Esta drew a deep and heavy sigh, her heart kicking up a notch as she contemplated who the visitor might be. On a ship mile out to sea at night, there were few possibilities and none of them good.”
In chapter three the mood shifts and I quote:
…Esta moved to the bow and stood with the wind in her face, the black strands of her wig streaming behind her. It was chill but not wet and she reveled in the dance of her ship over the waves. Sea Sprite was one of the joys of her life and sailing one of her great loves. When she was on the ocean, she was free of earthly ties and a little of its wildness seeped into her, giving her strength for the trials of estate life. Lately, she had found it almost impossible to return to the estate without a nagging sense of dread.
…You seem almost happy tonight, sister,” Katrine said, joining her in the bow. Katrine was wildness personified, with a lithe body and long black hair that she rarely tied back. Not for her the wig as she had less need for a full disguise, shunning public life as she did. She wore leather breeches, flowing black shirts and a broad black satin mask decorated with stars. Her piercing blue eyes were now fixed on Esta.
…I am happy, Katrine,” Esta said. “What makes you think I am ever unhappy?
I invite you to join Katrine and Esta as they sail the sea with visions of finding treasure on their minds.
I hope the quotes above whet your appetite for strong female characters, rugged men, pirates, treasure maps, adventure, sword and sorcery and of course romance. All eight books in the Queenmakers series stands-alone, so jump right into the fantasy world of Author Bernadette Rowley.
Editorial Review and Endorsement by Book Marketing Global Network.
Product Details: Paperback: 222 Pages Publisher: Bernadette Rowley Fantasy (June 29, 2020) Language: English Fantasy (Action & Adventure) Fantasy (Adult & College Age) Fantasy (Dragons & Mythical Creatures) Fantasy (Epic Romance) Fantasy (Fairy Tales) Fantasy (Metaphysical & Visionary) Fantasy (Sword & Sorcery) Romance (Action-Drama) Romance (Gothic) Romance (Paranormal)
The Master and The Sorceress by Bernadette Rowley.
An Epic Fantasy Romance Novel.
Queenmakers Saga Series Book Seven.
A DESPERATE SORCERESS
Katrine Aranati no longer knows how to deal with the woman she has become. She runs headlong into a man whose heart’s desire is order and control.
A MASTER JEWELER
James Tomel is outwardly a pillar of society, but he hides more than one secret. His life plan has no room for a dangerous liaison with a reckless stranger.
When they are thrown together on a trip to Brightcastle, fierce creatures from legend pursue them, but even more perilous are the feelings swirling between them. As their hearts and bodies come together, one will flee while the other demands an accounting.
The Master and the Sorceress is the seventh book in the epic Queenmakers Saga, combining the sweeping high fantasy world of Thorius with sizzling romance. If you like magic, danger and mythical creatures, wrapped up in an ‘opposites attract’ love story, you’ll adore The Master and the Sorceress.
This book contains sex scenes and is intended for mature readers.
Product Details: Paperback: 196 Pages Publisher: Bernadette Rowley Fantasy (November 8, 2020) Language: English Fantasy (Action & Adventure) Fantasy (Adult & College Age) Fantasy (Dragons & Mythical Creatures) Global Library: Fantasy (Epic Romance) Fantasy (Fairy Tales) Fantasy (Metaphysical & Visionary) Fantasy (Sword & Sorcery) Romance (Action-Drama) Romance (Gothic) Romance (Paranormal)
AN ELVEN PRINCESS Caught up in a vicious civil war, Gwaethe Arenil is desperate to save her peace-loving faction and reunite her people. A HUMAN COMMANDER Dashing army captain Jacques Vorasava has fought on the same side as Gwaethe in the past, but will he help her this time? And will his support come with more dangers than Gwaethe can accept, both for her people and her heart?
As the threat from the enemy elven faction forces them to work together, conflicts between their cultures push them apart. In a land of polarized opinion and intolerance, can Jacques and Gwaethe forge a new reality where their love can be accepted?
This story continues themes and characters from The Elf King’s Lady, book 5 in the Queenmakers Saga.
Elf Princess Warrior is the eighth book in the epic Queenmakers Saga, combining the sweeping high fantasy world of Thorius with sizzling romance. If you like magic, political intrigue and mythical creatures, wrapped up in an inter-racial love story, then you’ll adore Elf Princess Warrior.
This book contains sex scenes and is intended for mature readers.
Product Details: Paperback: 254 Pages Publisher: Bernadette Rowley Fantasy (November 4, 2020) Language: English Fantasy (Action & Adventure) Fantasy (Adult & College Age) Fantasy (Dragons & Mythical Creatures) Fantasy (Epic Romance) Fantasy (Fairy Tales) Fantasy (Metaphysical & Visionary) Fantasy (Sword & Sorcery) Romance (Action-Drama) Romance (Gothic) Romance (Paranormal
A princess determined to be queen. A secret shifter favored by the king. Can they find their way back to love?
Alecia Zialni has returned from exile, resolved to fulfill her mission to be queen of Thorius. But the headstrong princess is now a mother and no longer has a respected place in Brightcastle.
Vard Anton has gained control of his bear, but will it be too late to convince Alecia to take him back? Now the King’s Blade, he has the power Alecia craves.
As they reconnect and discover the depth of their love is unchanged, Alecia’s political aspirations drive a wedge between them.
Can Alecia fight deceit and tradition to become the next queen of Thorius? And will Vard’s new status spell the end of their chance at love?
The People’s Princess is the thrilling ninth book in the Queenmakers Saga epic fantasy romance series. If you like strong heroines, sexy shifters, forbidden passion and political intrigue then you’ll adore Bernadette Rowley’s enchanting adventure. Buy The People’s Princess to fight for love today!
This book contains sex scenes and is intended for mature readers.
Review by NIC: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Alecia is back and making her move…
Oh to be back in this world again.
I have loved this series from book one and with each new book and couple and this book brings everyone back into one as the coming war looms nearer and nearer.
So many familiar faces and some events from previous books tie back in but from Alecia’s pov.
Alecia is a young woman who is consumed by grief and rage struggling through a sense of betrayal from her father. Alecia is finding her strength and taking action to ensure her own future and the direction it’s going to take. She’s assembling her inner circle and making her own alliances.
Her and Vard are still smoldering and explosive together. But now they are on the opposite sides. Vard is loyal and the right hand of the king. Alecia is questioning said king and her actions may be seen as traitorous.
I am eagerly awaiting the next book and for more of the ‘tension’. Plus I can’t wait to see where everyone ends up and what secrets come to light.
Review by Inghild Økland: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Captivating! This was a captivating fantasy, full of mystery and wonder to keep turning the pages.
The setting, the court and the dead king, not knowing who could be trusted and how to prevail, was really interesting and exciting.
What hit me most perhaps was Alecia’s strong love for babies, not only her daughter, but also the brother she should ‘hate’. Her mother mentality and protective instinct was very strong, and I felt that I could relate to this.
I loved the book, and I think many will enjoy following Alecia and Vard to see their paths unfold.
Review by Rachel C.: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. I’ve missed them! I can’t say how excited I am to be back in this world with Alecia and Vard, as well as some familiar faces from the past! I know this gem took Bernadette longer than originally planned, but I can say with absolute certainty that it was worth the wait!
We pick up with Vard and Alecia separated, and Alecia returning home after having been gone for quite some time…and with a baby in tow, to boot! *gasp*
I don’t want to give anything away, but I will say, that just like with all the previous books in this series, the world-building, imagery, and characters are everything I have grown to expect from Bernadette. I found myself quickly re-immersed in this world, as if no time had passed. Characters that I have grown to love and root for are present *waves to Alecia, Vard, Meri, and Nikolas, etc.*, and like a welcome home, as well as some that I kind of want to punch…multiple times…in the face. We also make some new friends that I couldn’t help but love. My emotions were also all over the place, with some cheesy grins, yells, swoons, and cusses. I want the best for these characters because this author has made me care in a way that only the best can!
I’m not sure I’m doing this book justice, but I can say I highly recommend this, as well as the rest of the series! I recommend starting with Princess Avenger to understand the full complexities of the story! You won’t regret it!
Review by NB: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Fantastic story! The story starts with a bang and leaves you on the tip of your toes till the very end. Intrigue, adventure, shifters, elves, princesses, princes, witches, and more. Couldn’t put it down and stayed up way too late to finish it.
Review by READS A LOT: 4.0 out of 5 Stars. Elves, Shifters and Romance! Intense. Exciting. Page-turning. My first time reading this author so I will be checking out the series.
Product Details: Print Length: 341 Pages Publisher: Bernadette Rowley Fantasy; 1st Edition (February 17, 2022) Language: English Fantasy (Action & Adventure) Fantasy (Adult & College Age) Fantasy (Dragons & Mythical Creatures) Fantasy (Epic Romance) Fantasy (Fairy Tales) Fantasy (Metaphysical & Visionary) Fantasy (Sword & Sorcery) Romance (Action-Drama) Romance (Gothic) Romance (Paranormal)
A princess whose mission is to be queen. A secret shifter, at the right hand of the king. Will their love be enough to bind them?
As Alecia Zialni pulls her people together, she fears she doesn’t have the skills or the support to accomplish her ultimate goal.
Vard Anton is now the king’s most trusted advisor, but his secrets could topple him, and his sudden rise has delivered powerful enemies.
Yearning for Vard’s support in her political aspirations, Alecia is crushed when he offers her marriage instead.
As the enemy elven forces move on Thorius and its allies, will Alecia accept Vard’s proposal or forge ahead with her plans? And can Vard save the king and Thorius from the elven menace before his secrets are exposed?
The King’s Blade is the exciting tenth book in the Queenmakers saga epic fantasy romance series. If you like strong heroines, forbidden passion, political intrigue and mythical creatures, you’ll love Bernadette Rowley’s captivating adventure.
Buy The King’s Blade to fight for justice today!
This book contains sex scenes and is intended for mature readers.
Review by NIC: 5.0 out of 5 stars Bring on book 11!Omg I can’t wait for more! This book picked up literally right from where book 9 left off and kept on going. Alecia is starting to develop into the Queen she wants to be. I loved getting all the previous characters pov’s again and seeing the series continue moving towards the ultimate clash with the Sis Lenweri. A m/f romantic fantasy with multiple couples, court mechanics, battles, reunions and some steam.
Review by Tony: 5.0 out of 5 stars FASCINATING STORY.I thoroughly enjoyed this story. Full of action, suspense, intrigue, and action. What a surprising ending. I highly recommend this story.
Review by ScramblerRich: 5.0 out of 5 stars A Rollercoaster of passion, politics and intrigue! Don’t miss it! Reading Rowley’s Queenmakers Saga is like riding a rollercoaster with thrilling peaks and valleys of romance, intrigue and action and once I started it I found it hard to put down!
In her 10th installment in the series, “The King’s Blade”, Princess Alecia continues to push ever forward on her determination to become the first ruling Queen of Thorius in several centuries. Her lover Vard, who is the king’s blade wants her as his wife but that would derail her plans to become queen.
On top of that, the hostile Sis Lenweri elven faction have resurrected and enlisted a powerful and dangerous ally thought to have disappeared hundreds of years ago. With these allies, they have started to attack the various city strongholds held by the humans and the other elven group allied with them.
And on top of that, King Beniel is gravely ill! And he has made up his mind against having Princess Alecia take up his scepter to rule as Queen when he passes.
All the main characters developed in the previous nine books are on board and working together to resist the Sis Lenweri. But by no means are they doing so because they like each other. Far from it!
These unforgettable characters are continuously forced to confront their firmly held beliefs, political intrigues, fierce battles, ethical dilemmas, unquenchable desires, and love’s vagaries.
I’m smitten with this series and can’t wait to see it reach its conclusion. And even though this is the 10th volume, there is a thorough “previously in the Queensmaker Saga” summary section which brings you up to date on all the past events and characters so you can read it as a stand-alone novel. Don’t miss it!
Review by Shivani McK: 5.0 out of 5 stars Alecia Positioning for the Crown and there is Vard. Bernadette Rowley’s Book 10 of the Queenmakers Saga comes to grips with Alecia and Vard’s relation and the tension between her drive to become queen and rightful heir for her kingdom and people and Vard’s career as King’s Blade. The balance of family, career and relationships has always been a dilemma throughout time, sometimes at a cost with the balance being a delicate one. Alecia, her team and advisor, yes, and the guardians all show strength, courage and direction at Brightcastle while preparing for the elven attack. While Vard along with the King Beniel and his generals are engaged on the battlefield with the elves. The details of the battle scenes are exciting, full of description, and the urgency can be felt on all fronts. The sudden turn of events at every corner of the kingdom never stops and neither do the secrets, surprises, drama, and intrigue.
Review by Deb Barringer: 5.0 out of 5 stars An amazing adventure that should not be missed! The King’s Blade, book 10 in Bernadette Rowley’s Queenmakers Saga, is an epic adventure that does not disappoint. The long-awaited battle has finally arrived. Pushed to the point of breaking, and fighting against an unimaginable enemy, will the kingdom prevail or will it fall? The storyline is fast-paced and very well written, filled with danger, intrigue, subterfuge, politics, adventure and romance. This tale will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. The characters are well developed and engaging. I felt as if I was battling right along with the soldiers as they diligently fought. Alicia continues to aspire to be queen. With the kings health deteriorating, will she get her wish? Overall, this is a great addition to a wonderful series that should not be missed!
Review by Kelly Pfister: 5.0 out of 5 stars The King’s Blade. This story draws you in and keeps your attention the whole time. Great characters and great writing. Add this book to your reading list!
Review by Margo: 5.0 out of 5 stars Characters merge to fight an epic battle against good and evil. Game of Thrones type of book where you go bounce from one scene to the next to get the full view of the battlefields. It was great to read all the characters who had been well developed throughout the books merge together for the final epic battle. Who will merge the victor? What twists and turns will happen? Read and find out!
Review by NB: 5.0 out of 5 stars All night read. I was so excited to read the next book in the saga and it did not disappoint! I loved it! To be back in the world was a treat. You’ll just have to read to find out if their love survives their individual wants and be sure to leave time because it’ll keep you up all night.
Review by Debbie: 5.0 out of 5 stars Keeps you on the edge of your seat. This epic fantasy keeps you on the edge of your seat. The world building is incredible and descriptive, the storyline is captivating and enthralling and grabs you hook, line and sinker. The characters are amazing and Alecia is becoming the queen that she is meant to be. Filled with action, adventure, politics, intrigue , danger and romance, this is a series definitely well worth a read.
Product Details: Paperback: 338 Pages Publisher: Bernadette Rowley Fantasy (July 2, 2022) Language: English Fantasy (Action & Adventure) Fantasy (Adult & College Age) Fantasy (Dragons & Mythical Creatures) Fantasy (Epic Romance) Fantasy (Fairy Tales) Fantasy (Metaphysical & Visionary) Fantasy (Sword & Sorcery) Romance (Action-Drama) Romance (Gothic) Romance (Paranormal)
A princess who yearns for love and leadership. A powerful shifter, who walks a tightrope of intrigue and desire. Will their separate paths lead them to each other—or tear them apart?
Determined to gain the throne now that her uncle is dead, Alecia pushes ahead with her plans. However, a threat long thought extinct returns to the kingdom’s skies.
Vard Anton carries a secret which could destroy Alecia’s trust in him and crush their future. But he must enact the dead king’s plan and defeat the enemy elven faction marching on Brightcastle.
While all around is uncertain except for Vard’s love, Alecia turns her back on marriage in order to fulfill her political aspirations.
As the ultimate battle looms, will the kingdom forces triumph over their enemies? Can Alecia prove herself worthy of the throne as chaos ensues? And will Vard’s secret be the final blow to their love?
Of Queens and Dragons is the exciting eleventh book in the Queenmakers saga epic fantasy romance series. If you like strong heroines, forbidden passion, political intrigue and mythical creatures, you’ll love Bernadette Rowley’s captivating adventure.
Buy Of Queens and Dragons to fight for love today!
This book contains sex scenes and is intended for mature readers.
Review by NIC: 5.0 out of 5 stars The princess has become a QUEEN! Battle…swords…dragons…elves…night hounds…magic…court mechanics…
Bernadette created some thrilling battle scenes that had me holding my breath! I mean the pov’s and various parts of the battle throughout the region had you so deeply drawn into the conflict…this was my favorite war/battle depiction in probably…ever!
Plus hello…a warrior princess, an enraged dragon, some flaming arrows and a Hail Mary?! Ah, yes please and thank you! That scene will live rent free in my head.
This is book 11 and has beautifully tied together all the threads of the couples and story lines in the Queenmakers Saga so far. I highly recommend starting from book one as that is where it all begins.
Various m/f couples and their povs as the war has reached its climax and the fate of the kingdom must be decided. There are deaths as we are in war, some steamy scenes as our couples embrace and lots of twists. Epic fantasy romance at its finest.
Review by Deb Barringer: 5.0 out of 5 stars A wonderful conclusion to a fantastic collection! Of Queens and Dragons, book 11 in Bernadette Rowley’s Queenmakers Saga, is definitely a finale worthy of a five star rating. Brimming with adventure, I was on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. The storyline is fast-paced and very well written, filled with action, intrigue, mystery, politics, danger, subterfuge, and slow-burn romance. The battle that has been brewing finally comes to fruition and it is epic. The fighting is so well described I felt as if I was truly on the battlefield alongside the kingdom fighters, striving for victory against the Sis Lenweri. The characters are well developed and engaging. It is wonderful to see all of the people from prior episodes come together in this final installment. Their different relationships often lead to intense interactions. Overall, Of Queens and Dragons is a wonderful conclusion to what has been a fantastic collection!
Review by Margo: 5.0 out of 5 stars The battle we’ve all been waiting for has finally begun! It’s the end and the odds are stacked against the humans as they face an enemy with a secret weapon thought to be extinct. Most all the characters we have come to know and love show up to help fight. Great finale that will leave everyone who has read the series quite satisfied Enjoy!
Review by Debbie: 5.0 out of 5 stars This has been an epic series and this is a finale totally worthy of this series. This has been an epic series and this is a finale totally worthy of this it. From book one I have found myself drawn into this incredible world that the author has created and it all comes down to this final battle in this epic finale. The detail, the story, it’s just so exciting and thrilling and the characters that have been on this adventure have been remarkable and I am so glad I took this journey with them. Gripping, captivating and so so addictive, this fast paced epic fantasy is full of danger, intrigue, drama and secrets and will have you on the edge of your seat just to see how it all comes together at the end. Just amazing!
Review by Shivani McK: 5.0 out of 5 stars A Finally Worth Waiting For. What an amazing finally to this 11 book saga. Bernadette pulled out all the stops creating an epic battle scene in a fight for her place queen, the Lenweri, and the people of Thorium. The majority of Queens and Dragons final book in, The Queenmaker Saga is all about the battle. Detailed description of armor, weapons, battle tactics, and the emotions that Alecia feels in her first real battle as the Sis Lenweri converge upon Brightcastle as a pivotal move for complete take over. There are two characters missing from the battle, I’m sure you can guess, but everyone is present for this showdown, Hell-hounds and dragons included. You will want to pick up book 11 of the Queenmaker Saga: ‘Of Queens and Dragons’ for the exciting ending.
Review by NB: 5.0 out of 5 stars Captivating from the start. Such a satisfying slow burn romance. The beginning of this book had me gripped as the inevitable happened and then I had to find out if they would get together at all!
Review by Tony: 5.0 out of 5 stars Fantastic story. What a great finish to the series. It banished all of my fears and reinforced all of my hopes.
Product Details: Paperback: 302 Pages Publisher: Bernadette Rowley Fantasy (October 9, 2022) Language: English Fantasy (Action & Adventure) Fantasy (Adult & College Age) Fantasy (Dragons & Mythical Creatures) Fantasy (Epic Romance) Fantasy (Fairy Tales) Fantasy (Metaphysical & Visionary) Fantasy (Sword & Sorcery) Romance (Action-Drama) Romance (Gothic) Romance (Paranormal)
The Queenmakers Saga Box Set by Bernadette Rowley.
Spicy Epic Fantasy Romance Series Box Set (Books 1-4).
An epic fantasy box set with over 1200 pages of spicy romance, magic, and political intrigue.
Titles contained in this box set: Princess Avenger, The Lady’s Choice, Princess in Exile, and The Lord and the Mermaid.
The saga begins with PRINCESS AVENGER:
A princess in disguise. A shifter with a hidden agenda. Will they uncover the truth in time for romance to blossom?
Alecia Zialni has sworn revenge against her father for having her first love murdered. Masquerading as a man to pursue her vendetta, the prince’s headstrong daughter is soon in over her head. And when her handsome rescuer is assigned as her protector, her secret double life becomes complicated by their rapidly growing chemistry.
Captain Vard Anton struggles to control his budding lust for the determined princess he’s supposed to defend. And as an animal shapeshifter charged with killing her father, he knows he can never reveal his true identity. But the violent beast form he cannot master threatens to expose him and risk her safety.
As her feelings for Vard continue to bloom, Alecia is devastated when she’s betrothed to a lecherous lord. And wracked with guilt over his ultimate mission, Vard fears there is no way for them to ever be together. But her obsession with vengeance may be the death of them both…
Can Alecia and Vard topple a tyrant to join their destinies and their hearts?
Princess Avenger is the thrilling first book in the Queenmakers Saga epic fantasy romance series. If you like strong heroines, sexy shifters, and forbidden passion, then you’ll adore Bernadette Rowley’s enchanting adventure.
Buy Princess Avenger to go undercover for justice today!
Readers Recommend Princess Avenger: If you’re looking for a story to take your mind away, pick up Princess Avenger. Just don’t drop your Kindle in the bathtub. Recipe for a captivating fantasy – fast-paced adventure, romance, a strong hero, and equally strong heroine, wrapped in a fine layer of magic.
Readers Recommend The Lady’s Choice: Man, talk about an out-of-control locomotive ride! An intense storyline holds you on a razor’s edge with total focus riveted to each word. A fantastic read with adventure and twists.
Readers Recommend Princess in Exile: A rollercoaster of unexpected events and surprising mishaps launch all your emotions to blazing life in this gripping storyline. A fantastic read from the first page. You won’t want to put it down. If you like magic, shifters, and battles, you’ll love this.
Readers Recommend The Lord and the Mermaid: One stunning storyline and roaring plot catapults this beauty to life. The characters are authentic with depth and individualism that blend and flow. Retelling of The Little Mermaid – better than the original and Disney! The Queenmakers Saga Box Set Books 1 to 4 includes Princess Avenger, The Lady’s Choice, Princess in Exile and The Lord and the Mermaid. We’re talking 1300 pages. And the genre is sexy epic fantasy romance. The setting is my fantasy kingdom of Thorius and you can expect feisty heroines, tortured heroes, magic, political intrigue, and mystical creatures. If you love a good shifter romance, Princess Avenger is your kind of story and you’ll want to continue following Alecia and Vard in Princess in Exile. The Lady’s Choice features Ramon Zorba, secondary character from Princess Avenger and a sexy beta hero. I had fun creating him. The heroine, Benae, is a healer and you are just going to love her. The Lord and the Mermaid is my retelling of The Little Mermaid. I know you’re going to enjoy how this romance evolves. The mind boggles. Sit back and get carried away to another world where you can forget your troubles and just be….
Top US Reviews:
Review by Rachel C.: 5.0 out of 5 stars Loved. I joined a Facebook group and stumbled across Bernadette Rowley. I’m glad I did. I enjoyed being able to read the boxset, so I could get all four at once. I liked how each book focused on different primary characters, while two of them did follow two previous characters, which I was glass about. I of course have my favorites, but I enjoyed all the characters. Bernadette does a great job overlapping timelines, as these stories happen in the same world, and have some overlapping characters as well. I recommend giving this series a chance! I’m glad I did.
Edit: Now that it’s been a while since I’ve read it, I thought it only fair to come back and say just how much I love this series! I love the characters so much, and I keep thinking about them and what might happen/what I want to happen! The other books in the series after the box set are the perfect addition! Highly anticipating Queen’s Return to come out! You should most definitely give these books a read!
Review by Corina Douglas: 5.0 out of 5 stars Hooked line and sinker!The author has done an amazing job with this series. The world she’s created is believable and engaging. I have fallen in love and out of love with characters, only to fall back in love with them. This is a clever feat, and shows the author’s talent to show all facets of a character. I particularly enjoyed the first story and the third, and I look forward to reading the other stories in this world!
Review by Jignet: 5.0 out of 5 stars READ IT YOU WILL LOVE IT EVERY SINGLE BOOK IN THIS SERIES. I love all these great books. Some I read before the series and enjoyed them then but now all together in one place is a killer steal deal!!
Review by Brigitte Frantz: 5.0 out of 5 stars Intriguing Romance Adventure. Wonderful Exciting Adventurous. I can’t say enough about this series. The writing is excellent. Captures you from the beginning and keeps you to the next book. I read them all in a row. The characters are marvelous.
Review by Maria J: 5.0 out of 5 stars Treasure Trove. I love this series!
Review by Me: 3.0 out of 5 stars Ok It just was not for me. Insipid princess meets horny conflicted and deranged shifter. There was not much in the way of growth that I could see character wise. I really wanted to love this tale but sadly it just didn’t resonate with me.
Review by Shivani McK: 5.0 out of 5 stars Romance Series Worth Reading. If you are looking for a good romance series boxset look no further than The Queenmakers Saga. Bernadette Rowley has created a wonderful series in a medieval time set with castles, forest, elves, and passionate royal families. The woman in her series, usually Ladies to the Queen, are strong, courageous, and even though they may appear venerable they are not weak. The men, often military captains, are dashing, a bit stubborn, of few words but emotions that run deep and lots of honor. Bernadette’s stories have heart, intrigue, suspense, sexy steam, and a different view on love in each story. This is a romance series worth reading.
Review by Deb Barringer: 5.0 out of 5 stars Awesome! Queenmakers Saga by Bernadette Rowley is unlike any series I have ever read. Each book is interlinked yet completely able to stand on its own. Every book hosts an unconventional romance with plenty of fantasy to keep you on the edge of your seat. The heroines are strong, the men are commanding and sparks fly everywhere while they fight for their lives. This is truly a box set not to be missed!
Product Details: Print Length: 976 Pages Publication Date: August 6, 2019 Language: English Fantasy (Action & Adventure) Fantasy (Adult & College Age) Fantasy (Dragons & Mythical Creatures) Fantasy (Epic Romance) Fantasy (Fairy Tales) Fantasy (Metaphysical & Visionary) Fantasy (Sword & Sorcery) Romance (Action-Drama) Romance (Gothic) Romance (Paranormal)
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,743 Portuguese Editions by Chris Karlsen. Heróis Vivem para Sempre (Portuguese Edition) by Chris Karlsen. Tainá Fernandes da Rocha de Araujo (Translator). Elinor Hawthorne herdou uma casa assombrada pelos fantasmas de dois cavaleiros medievais, Basil Manneville e Guy Guiscard. Basil é o homem dos seus sonhos, seu cavaleiro de… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,631 Spanish Editions by Chris Karlsen. A Tiempo Para Ti (Spanish Edition) by Chris Karlsen. MARIA GLORIA GARCIA MENENDEZ (Translator). Mientras cabalgan por el campo inglés, las hermanas Electra y Emily Crippen se encuentran atrapadas en una brecha en el tiempo. Arrojadas de vuelta a la Inglaterra de 1357… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,623 Dark Water Series! Golden Chariot by Chris Karlsen. Dark Waters Book 1. 5-Star Review- As with her other books, Chris Karlsen has impeccably researched her topic. Golden Chariot is engaging and full of information and insight. I thoroughly enjoyed this smart, well-written story and am looking forward to… Continue reading →
4 Stars “A grand debut” by Night Owl Romance Reviews. Elinor Hawthorne has in inherited a house that is haunted by the ghosts of two medieval knights, Basil Manneville and Guy Guiscard. Basil is the man of her dreams, her knight in shining armor. She falls in love with him and he with her. Basil soon realizes she needs to live a normal life, a happy life with a mortal. A lifetime later fate intervenes. Basil, still in love with Elinor, is told her spirit lives on in a young woman and is given another chance at life to find her.
5 Stars: Romantic Dilemma Between A Young Woman And Ghost From The 1300’s.
Author Chris Karlsen is one of my favorite story tellers. Her creative mind takes history, time, characters and story line to a place few have travelled. As a fan of the paranormal, Chris captures my imagine and leaves me wanting more.
In Heroes Live Forever (Knights in Time series book 1), we meet Elinor Hawthorne, a remarkable young school teacher. She has who has just inherited Badger Hollow Manor in Norfolk, England (1980), from her grandmother. Elinor has a no-nonsense attitude about ghosts; when she meets and has to share living space with, two medieval knights killed in the 1300’s.
Ladies: If you were to fall in your home, would you prefer to fall into the strong arms of a strong, handsome, ghost knight, or just hit the floor? Elinor’s experience begins an amazing friendship, love story, fantasy, and time travel adventure, you will not want to miss.
The first part of this story will touch your heart and even bring you sadness. The second part of this book will give you a renewed sense the of destiny and timeless love.
The dilemma is between flesh and spirt. Let me bring you into a conversation these two medieval ghost knights, Basil Mandeville and Guy Guiscard are having in Chapter 15.
…After Elinor left that evening, the knights rode to the castle ruins. Neither spoke until they reached the parapet.
…Guy propped himself against the wall and stretched his long legs out in front of him. The night breeze blew leaves over the stones and across where he lay.
…Basil stood, elbows on a crenel and where he had a view of Elinor’s house bathed in the moonlight.
…Guy tilted his head back and closed his eyes. “Do you want to talk about that scene you made over the butcher’s flowers?”
… “I have no idea what you’re talking about.”
… “Don’t be evasive. It ill suits you. You’re jealous, although, I cannot fathom why you’d be so upset over a silly gift from some tradesman.”
… “That is ridiculous. I have never been jealous in my life.”
… “If you were cut right now, you’d bleed green. It certainly wasn’t your aesthetic sense that was offended by her display of roses. Admit it, you’re smitten with her.” Guy cracked one eye open and peered at Basil.
… “You’re trying to irritate me.”
…True, he was fond of Elinor, too fond. He enjoyed being with her more than he cared to say, even to Guy.
…However, jealousy was too preposterous to entertain seriously.
… “I will grant I like her very much, but so do you, do you not?” Basil said.
…Guy shifted so they faced each other. “Yes, I like her, enough to wish I’d met her a long, long time ago.” The unexpected confession got Basil’s attention. “Elinor has none of the brittleness I’ve known in many women. She’s a warm, witty, comely lady. She’s also flesh and blood.”
…Uncomfortable under his friend’s scrutiny, Basil turned away and focused on the house again. “Is there a point to this discussion?”
… “She’s a flesh and blood woman with visions for her future.” Guy rose and joined Basil. “You are but a vision of a past flesh and blood man.” He laid his hand on Basil’s shoulder, “Make sure it’s enough for her my friend.” Guy walked away, leaving Basil alone with his thoughts.
Can Basil Manneville compete with Elinor’s human admirer?
I invite you to read Heroes Live Forever (Knights in Time series book 1), then turn you attention as I will, to Journey in Time (Knights in Time series book 2) by Chris Karlsen. An internationally published author, Chris has traveled extensively throughout Europe, the Near East, and North Africa, satisfying her need to visit places she read about. Having spent a great deal of time in England and France, she used her love of both places as settings for her Knights in Time (5 book) series.
Editorial Review and Endorsement by Book Marketing Global Network.
Product Details: Knights in Time Book 1 Paperback: 390 Pages Publisher: Books to Go Now (April 14, 2011) Language: English Romance (Historical) Romance Historical Suspense Thrillers
London attorney, Shakira Constantine finally agrees to spend the day with her handsome client, Alex Lancaster. While riding in the countryside, the couple finds themselves caught in a time warp and transported back to the 14th century-and an England preparing for war. Everyone believes Alex is the Baron Guy Guisard, a baron who died in the upcoming battle. If they can’t find a way to return to the 21st Century, Alex will have to sail with the army to certain death. Shakira will be left alone to survive in the alien and terrifying medieval world.
5 Stars: From Predictable to Well Researched Medieval Drama!
After Enjoying Heroes Live Forever (Knights in Time Book 1), I naturally turned to Journey in Time (Knights in Time Book 2). In book two we meet Shakira Constantine, beautiful, independent, successful London attorney. When Shakira meets Alex Lancaster (music producer and playboy), their destiny is intertwined when she accepts him as a client, goes against her own ethics, joining him for a weekend at his cottage in the Gloucestershire countryside.
Nothing could prepare these two for the time travel adventure that carries them back to the medieval 13th century. Twists, Turns, humor, danger, romance, and your own emotions will keep you turning the pages, until they return to the 21st century.
Let me bring you into the story (Chapter 18):
…Shakira cracked open one eye. If she was very, very lucky, this would be Alex’s cottage. If she was very, very unlucky, she’d see the walls of an old Keep. Rough cut, honey colored stone confirmed the worst. She closed her eyes and tried to convince herself she still slept and this was part of a horrible nightmare. She refused to acknowledge the noises that drifted up sounded too authentic for a dream.
…Gates creaked, doors slammed, dogs barked, horses whinnied, geese honked, one after another. Women shouted orders. Young voices answered, followed by the sound of running feet. The sun hadn’t fully appeared on the horizon yet, but castle folk see no reason to be quiet. Their daily life begins when the first bright streaks show themselves.
… “Rocky?” Alex patted her shoulder. “Rocky, we need to get up.”
…Torn, she lay curled and silent. She didn’t want to face waking in 1355, but she definitely didn’t want to believe she dreamt making love to Alex either.”
I invite you to join Shakira (nickname rocky) and Alex (known as Baron Guy Guisard) as they discover how to survive in the 13th medieval century and find their way home. I love this authors characters and story. Author Chris Karlsen will frustrate you at times with her flawed human characters. Your emotions will fluctuate, but in the end, Chris knows what is best. There is a must-read Epilogue.
Each book in the series stand-alone, so you can jump in anytime. The five-book series ‘Knights in Time’ include Heroes Live Forever (Book 1), Journey in Time (Book 2), Knight Blindness (Book 3), In Time for You (Book 4) and Losing Time Book 5). Never fear, there are more paranormal, romance, time travel series written by Chris Karlsen (internationally published author). Chris has traveled extensively throughout Europe, the Near East, and North Africa, satisfying her need to visit places she read about. Having spent a great deal of time in England and France, she used her love of both places as settings for her Knights in Time series.
Editorial Review and Endorsement by Book Marketing Global Network.
Product Details: Knights in Time Book 2 Paperback: 352 Pages Publisher: Books to Go Now (September 1, 2011) Language: English Romance (Historical) Romance Historical Suspense Thrillers
Given a choice between the pleasant life you knew centuries ago or the possibility of all you want in an uncertain new world, which would you choose? Two men torn through time find themselves in the modern but alien world. Old enemies, one hunting the other, one discovering love, both fighting private battles to survive. Book 3 of The Knights in Time Series Ready for battle, Medieval English knight, Stephen Palmer, charges into the French enemy’s cavalry line. Heeding a warning given months before, he hesitates as he comes face-to-face with the knight in the warning. Struck down in the year 1356, he finds himself landing in the year 2013. Grievously wounded, he’s taken to a nearby hospital.
Confused by the new world surrounding him, he attempts to convince the staff he’s from another time, only to find they think him mad. Rescued by friends, who, to his surprise, have also come through time, he must find a way to function in this odd modern England. He is quickly enchanted by the kind Esme Crippen, the young woman hired to tutor him. She too is enchanted by him. Tempted to deepen the relationship, she hesitates thinking him adorable, but mad. He must discover the means for getting her to believe the truth, all the while, unknown to him, he didn’t come forward in time alone. The enemy knight has also traveled to 2013. French noble, Roger Marchand, doesn’t question why the English knight who charged him hesitated. That fraction of a pause gave him the advantage needed and he brought his sword down upon the Englishman’s helmet hard, unhorsing the knight. He moved to finish the Englishman off when the world changed in a rush of sensations as he is ripped through time. Seeking a reason for the terrible event, he enters a nearby chapel. There, thinking God has chosen him for a quest to turn French defeat that day in 1356 to victory, he sets out to find the English knight. The man he is convinced holds the key to time. If he returns to the day of the battle, he can warn his king of mistakes that snatched victory from them.
Product Details: Knights in Time Book 3 Paperback: 394 Pages Publisher: Books to Go Now (July 20, 2013) Language: English Romance (Historical) Romance Historical Suspense Thrillers
While horseback riding in the English countryside, sisters, Electra and Emily Crippen find themselves trapped in a tear in time. Thrown back to 1357 England and caught by a local noble, they are in a place that is home but as frightening and unfamiliar as an alien world would be with no idea how the tear in time came about. The one thing they do know is they must stay together and stay near to where the event took place in hopes of discovering the way back to their modern life. That certain need to stay to stay together is the first certainty taken from them when one sister is forced to remain in England and one is sent miles away to Wales by royal order.
There is one other hope for help the sisters don’t know exists. It’s Electra’s lover, Roger Marchand. A time traveler himself, he never told her of his past. When he realizes what has happened to the sisters, he enlists the help of a scientist friend to help him open the suspected passageway through time. Any effort to save Electra and Emily will likely cost him his life. This was the time Roger came from, a time when his country, France, was at war with England. If he is discovered on English soil while searching for the sisters, he will either be killed or taken prisoner of war. Any risk is worth saving the life of the woman he loves.
Product Details: Knights in Time Book 4 Paperback: 366 Pages Publisher: Books to Go Now (September 4, 2019) Language: English Romance (Historical) Romance Historical Suspense Thrillers
Felicia Wycliff’s peaceful stroll through the woods turned to disaster when her dachshund bolted after a rabbit. One minute Felicia was running after the determined little dog, the next she was hurled to the ground. Gathering her wits after her tumble, she brushed herself off and continued her pursuit—right into three mounted knights who blocked her path.
They were so authentic looking. They might’ve stepped from the keep of the nearby castle, Elysian Fields. But the old Norman fortress was a ruin and had been for three hundred years.
“Seize her,” the middle knight ordered, the knight who sat tallest in the saddle.
“Let me go.” She fought, striking out when the two knights grabbed her. “Who the deuce are you?”
“I’m the Captain of the Baron’s Guard, and you are trespassing.”
Kidnapped, her confusion and fear consumed her. But when they rode through the gates of Elysian Fields, the castle looking as formidable as the date it was built, her terror exploded.
When she fell she knew exactly where she was. But where the devil had she landed?
Product Details: Knights in Time Book 5 Print Length: 356 Pages Publisher: Books to Go Now (September 16, 2018) Language: English Romance (Historical) Romance Historical Suspense Thrillers
Best-selling series, together for the first time in a boxed set.
Three friends…warrior knights, One battle will change their lives, Love will change their worlds.
HEROES LIVE FOREVER: Elinor Hawthorne has inherited a house haunted by two medieval knights, Basil Manneville and Guy Guiscard. Basil is literally the knight of her dreams. She never expected to “meet” a ghost face to face let alone fall in love with one. Living the normal life together that they’d want is impossible unless fate
Intervenes: A lifetime later fate does intervene. Basil, still in love with Elinor, is told her spirit lives on in a young woman. He is given another chance at life to find her.
JOURNEY IN TIME: The budding romance between London attorney, Shakira Constantine, and her client, Alex Lancaster is put to the test when the couple finds themselves torn through time back to the medieval world. It’s a world Alex has a strong connection to, a connection that will cost him his life unless they can find a way to return to this time. Without him, Shakira is condemned to live in a dangerous medieval world alone.
Together they’ll struggle to discover a way back to the modern world while dealing with the political and social intrigues of 14th Century England. The intrigues of that world all too often work against their efforts to get home.
KNIGHT BLINDNESS: Stephen Palmer, a wounded medieval knight finds himself torn through time from the battlefield to the modern and alien world.
Seriously injured, he now must make his way in a world he has no context for and no knowledge about.
Esme Crippen is hired as his tutor. Love is something he does understand and as the two fall into love, they both must overcome the fact the world thinks him mad with his time-travel talk, including Esme.
About The Author: Chris Karlsen is a retired police detective. She spent twenty-five years in law enforcement with two different agencies. The daughter of a history professor and voracious reader, she grew up with a love of history and books.
An internationally published author, Chris has traveled extensively throughout Europe, the Near East, and North Africa, satisfying her need to visit places she read about. Having spent a great deal of time in England and France, she used her love of both places as settings for her Knights in Time (5 book) series.
Author Chris Karlsen presents her Historical Romance and Historical Suspense Thrillers and Historical Love & War series.
Her series now include Knights in Time series, the Bloodstone series, Love & War series, Dark Water series and a Holiday short story selection: Choosing Home or Heart. Her novels are available in digital, e-book, Android App, paperback, audio format, and some books are presented in foreign language format.
A Chicago native, Chris has lived in Paris, Los Angeles, and now resides in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two rescue dogs. A city girl all her life, living in a small town on a bay was an interesting adjustment. She’d never lived anywhere so quiet at night and where traffic wasn’t bumper to bumper 24/7.
Some of Chris’s favorite authors are: Bernard Cornwell, Michael Connolly, Joseph Wambaugh, Julia Quinn, Julie Anne Long and Deanna Raybourne.
Author Chris Karlsen Presents Her Historical Romance and Historical Romance Suspense Thrillers!
Broken Faces: Historical Romance Based on True WWI Events
Knights in Time
Heroes Live Forever
Journey in Time
Knight Blindness
Losing Time
In Time for You
Bloodstone Series
Silk
Snifter of Death
A Venomous Love
Love & War Series
The Ack Ack Girl
Moonlight Serenade (New Historical Romance)
Dark Water Series
Dangerous Waters
Golden Chariot
Byzantine Gold
Holiday Selection: Choosing Home or Heart (this is a Christmas story where my Victorian detective from the series, Rudyard Bloodstone, goes home to Wales for the holidays and to introduce his lady love to his family. No murder, just a warm-hearted holiday novella)
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,713 Characters Unleashed: Writing Exercises For New Authors by Theodocia McLean. Congratulations, You Have Decided To Write A Book. Writing your first book will send you on a roller coaster of emotions. Maybe you have dreamed for years of retiring from your job, creating time and the perfect space… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,747 Cat Diary For Cat Lovers (In The Event Of Accident Or My Death) by Theodocia McLean. Dear Cat Lover, I could never imagine (not would I want to) my life without a cat. Even as a child, I had a cat and some years a cat and a… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,667 Household Property Inventory Workbook by Theodocia McLean. A Must Have Record Keeping System. The Household Property Inventory Workbook by Theodocia McLean is one purchase you will wish you had made several years ago. Lucky for you, it is never too late to document household and personal belongings. This… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,633 Nephilim: Living Among Us by Theodocia McLean. Is This Half-Breed Living Among Us Today? People are experiencing encounters with these fallen angels who have both de-evolved and evolved with an insatiable lust. Theodocia McLean’s book, The Nephilim: Is This Half-Breed Living Among Us Today? is a unique approach… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,555 Beyond The Diamond Pod by Theodocia McLean. It is the year 3010. Fyodor lives in the future and travels to the past. Her story is vivid, depicting real-time events as she moves through time, back into our Biblical past: Genesis, Adam and Eve, Noah documented with biblical references…. Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,738 Short Story Collection. Backyard Volcano And Other Mysteries Of The Heart by Kathryn Lane. These stories help define the world of the Texas-Mexico Frontier—an explosive world where lives break, loves shatter, and healing happens. Kathryn Lane, a native of Mexico, explores this world, leading readers on a journey… Continue reading →
Kathryn Is Located In Texas & The Mountains Of Northern New Mexico.
Nikki Garcia Mystery Series.
Terror In Desert Skies by Kathryn Lane.
A Sky Full of Color – And a Storm of Deception.
Book Seven: Nikki Garcia Mystery Series.
A day of joy turns into a nightmare…
The sky was filled with wonder—vibrant colors, drifting dreams, and the thrill of flight. Unexpectedly, the dazzling celebration at a balloon fiesta takes a horrifying turn when a hot air balloon plummets from the sky. Nikki’s world shatters—two lives are lost, and her brother is in surgery, fighting for his life.
A witness claims to have seen something that could change everything—a drone, hovering too close to the balloon before disaster struck. Was it a tragic accident? Or something far more sinister?
Grief must take a back seat as Nikki races to uncover the truth. Because somewhere, someone knows what really happened.
As Nikki searches for answers in a landscape as treacherous as it is breathtaking, she uncovers secrets someone would kill to protect.
About The Author: Kathryn Lane is the award-winning author of the Nikki Garcia Mystery Series and the coming-of-age novel, Stolen Diary.
In her writing, Kathryn draws inspiration from her experiences growing up in a small town in Mexico as well as her work and travel in over ninety countries around the globe during her international finance career.
Kathryn loves the Arts. Her passions are writing, doing research for her novels, and reading. In her spare time, she visits museums, listens to lectures, or cooks. Over dinner, Kathryn and her husband, Bob Hurt, like to discuss the books they are reading that week.
Murder In Monte Carlo: A Nikki Garcia Mystery by Kathryn Lane.
Monte Carlo is in Italy and Monte Carlo.
Investigating stolen art is not a pretty picture…
Nikki’s dream job becomes a reality when a New York antique art dealer hires her for a covert mission aboard a cruise ship.
Her task is to gather evidence on two passengers suspected of stealing art from the New York dealer. The presumed thieves, posing as art experts, quickly befriend Nikki, plunging her into a moral quandary. Can she remain impartial?
As her investigation intensifies, she identifies a third suspect and breaks into his cabin. The situation escalates when he arrives unexpectedly and finds her rummaging through his belongings. Narrowly, she manages to escape his menacing threats.
At one of the ports of call, she witnesses a chilling murder in broad daylight. The realization dawns on her that a far more sinister plot, possibly involving cartel members, is unfolding. Could this be a scheme to launder illicit profits through an international network of anonymous art transactions?
With the stakes higher than ever, Nikki must decide if she should continue her perilous investigation…knowing that she could become the next target.
‘Rage in The Wilderness’ is located in New Mexico and the mountains of Colorado.
You can’t keep the past buried forever…
When private investigator Nikki Garcia comes to New Mexico, raging wildfires in the nearby mountains force her and her family to evacuate. In the ensuing chaos, people close to her, including her husband, mysteriously disappear.
Join Nikki as she races across the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the Colorado prairie in a desperate attempt to save her loved ones. Her search unearths decades-old secrets and an international spy network that will stop at nothing to steal secrets from the heart of Cheyenne Mountain.
As she navigates treacherous terrain and ruthless adversaries, old secrets hold the key to uncovering the truth. When she unravels a past that defies explanation, will that help her locate her kidnapped husband or will she pay the ultimate price in this perilous pursuit?
Prepare for a riveting adventure with a female sleuth that will keep you on the edge of your seat, craving every page.
With Rage in the Wilderness, Kathryn Lane has written another page-turning tale of relentless tension and suspense—an adventure into a complicated world of espionage and betrayal, of paranoia and forgotten secrets. —Lowell Mick White, author of Normal School.
Review by Michael Savana: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Superb writing, can’t-put-it-down excitement. Reviewed in the United States on February 18, 2024. Verified Purchase. Captivating story. The writing style was colorful yet efficient. The characters were all captivating and none were incidental to the story-each a piece of the puzzle. The plot twists were all surprising and the ending was edge-of-the-seat. A wild ride through intrigue and murder.
A woman is dead, a teenager is missing, and the partners of a vacation stem cell travel agency in Miami are suspects.
One partner is the father of the missing girl and the other one is the husband of the murdered woman. The widower is unreachable, having taken clients on a stem cell therapy trip to the Caribbean.
Nikki Garcia investigates the girl’s disappearance and, in the midst of conflicting testimony from witnesses, it’s impossible to distinguish victims from perpetrators. Following a trail of evidence, Nikki and Eduardo, her husband, assume undercover identities and fly to Havana, Cuba, only to find a world of deceit, betrayal, and espionage.
When Eduardo locates the widower, he attempts to gather sensitive information on the missing teenager and reveals more information than he should.
Nikki’s colleagues in her Miami private investigator office fear the worst when communication with her becomes impossible.
Will they manage to escape the fate they both fear? And what about the missing teenager – will she be found before it’s too late?
If you love women sleuths, crime fiction, and the mystery and suspense novels of John Grisham, Kristi Belcamino, and Isabella Maldonado, you will also love Silver Falchion Award-Winning Author Kathryn Lane’s Nikki Garcia Mystery Series.
Missing in Miami is a gripping read that has the ring of authenticity to it. Kathryn Lane knows what she’s writing about. I loved the Cuban scenes. If Nikki Garcia ever decides to leave the detective profession, she has a future in the spy business. I’d hire her in a heartbeat. ─J ames M. Olson, former CIA Chief of Counterintelligence, and the author of To Catch a Spy: The Art of Counterintelligence.
It was supposed to be a simple assignment. A straightforward corporate fraud investigation to keep Nikki Garcia’s mind off the never-ending pain of losing her son.
Instead, after arriving in Medellín, Colombia, she uncovers corruption that is darker and more dangerous than anyone suspected.
Nikki is convinced that general manager Manuel del Campo’s opulent lifestyle is hiding something sinister. Especially when she discovers two accidental company deaths have gone unreported.
Somehow, Nikki must gain the trust of those on the inside to find answers, while an offer from a charming doctor in Del Campo’s circle to show her around Medellín is too good to refuse.
Except unraveling tightly held secrets comes at a cost, and when another company employee is found dead, Nikki is ordered to retreat to safety.
But what her enemies couldn’t possibly know is that this assignment has become personal, and Nikki intends to bring them to justice.
Even if trusting the wrong person could prove fatal…
If you love women sleuths, crime fiction, and the mystery and suspense novels of John Grisham, Kristi Belcamino, and Isabella Maldonado, you will also love Silver Falchion Award-Winning Author Kathryn Lane’s Nikki Garcia Mystery Series.
Waking Up in Medellin isn’t your run-of-the-mill thriller, but a powerful story of conflicts that escalate swiftly. — Romuald Dzemo for Readers’ Favorite
Review by Jackie Pelham: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Exciting Debut. Reviewed in the United States on May 23, 2017. Verified Purchase. Waking Up in Medellin is an exciting debut novel by Kathryn Lane. In a first novel there are often problems in content or grammar but I read through this well-written and plotted, fast paced mystery without noticing any.
Lane’s experience as an international finance executive and her knowledge of the Latin American culture, are perfect backdrops for this intriguing suspense. As a multinational auditing executive, the protagonist Nikki is assigned to investigate a Columbian corporation due to anonymous allegations of the corporation’s mismanagement. Expecting a routine analysis, she is instead thrown into a world of corruption, murder, and theft where her own life is threatened.
The story is written in first person, so we are there with Nikki as she tries to navigate through the twists and turns of her complicated and dangerous assignment. With just enough introspection and narrative, she becomes a believable and likeable character who is grieving the loss of her son, yet possesses a good sense of humor, is skilled in her profession, and who isn’t looking for romance, although it might find her. I’ve read many mystery/thrillers and can usually figure out the mastermind early on, but was completely surprised at this one. I look forward to visiting with Nikki again and would recommend this novel to anyone wanting to read a good suspense story.
Amazon Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Suspense At Its Best. Reviewed in the United States on December 11, 2016. Verified Purchase. Waking Up in Medellin is a well-written novel with characters that come alive. Their motives and passions are those we find in the best and worst of mankind. Kathryn’s writing draws the reader in so I began trusting no one, as does Nikki, the main character. The realistic style and setting of the novel led me into a corrupt world of drug deals, money laundering, and silencing witnesses, and the into the minds of people who will do anything to further their personal agendas. However, Nikki’s determination to right the world of these wrongs keeps the suspense intense, but hopeful. My connection was even stronger after hearing Kathryn speak about Columbia and Medellin prior to reading. I travelled with Nikki through the tunnels and searched with her for terror waitng within the lush growth of the landscape. This is a novel that will keep you reading, and I anxiously await the next Nikki novel.
Review by sunglasslady19: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Great read! Mystery and romance wasn’t expected but really enjoyed. Reviewed in the United States on May 2, 2022. Verified Purchase. Nikki Garcia CPA Fraud Division is sent to Mexico to investigate a reported irregularity in one of their companies. What she was not expecting was to meet a special man. With all the things happening at the company she was investigating the timing was terrible and she was being urged to be cautious by her investigating team.
Review by Ron Beall: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Exciting with many interesting characters. Reviewed in the United States on April 8, 2016. Verified Purchase. I just finished reading Waking Up in Medellin by Kathryn Lane. Although most of my reading is science fiction, thriller (e.g. Jason Bourne), mystery (e.g. Jefferey Deaver) and especially bridge (I am an expert bridge player), I still greatly enjoyed reading Waking Up in Medellin.
Lane is an excellent writer, with a good sense of style. I was interested in the characters and kept wondering who was going to turn out to be the good guy and which the bad guy. I wasn’t surprised with who turned out to be the good guy, but I was shocked with who turned out to be the bad guy (yes, I know, rather an overly simplistic analysis especially since there were multiple good and bad characters, but I think you get my drift).
I particularly liked the chapters near the end where the adrenaline kicked in. I hope there will be sequels since I am interested in learning more not only with what Nikki (the heroine) does, but more about some of the other characters as well.
Review: The story has many strong characters, and the supporting cast is a necessary part of the story, however, through-out it really comes down to the two main characters, Nikki and her Doctor. There are so many good guys, bad guys, and many that can go either way that the story moves at lighten speed toward an explosive finish. Ironically, encapsulated within the story, are tidbits of fact and interest that are stories within the story and amazingly they add more spice than seems possible, almost as a breather from the ever-building suspense. Grisham comes to mind, a great story accompanied by teaching another culture, as a comparison to this tale.
From The Back Cover: Named “Best Fiction Book of the Year–2017” by the Killer Nashville International Mystery Writers’ Conference. Waking Up in Medellin by Kathryn Lane is as hard to put down as an unscratched lottery ticket. Nikki Garcia is the accountant version of James Bond. The story is set in Medellin, Colombia, and moves at lightning speed toward an explosive finish. As a comparison, Grisham comes to mind. Review by Robert Selby, screenplay writer, book reviewer, and volunteer at the Killer Nashville International Mystery Writers’ Conference. Waking Up in Medellin isn’t your run-of-the-mill thriller, but a powerful story of conflicts that escalate swiftly and culminate in a satisfying denouement. Review by Romuald Dzemo for Readers’ Favorite
What Amazon readers are saying about the Nikki Garcia Mysteries: “What a story! Best book I have read in a very long time.” “Mystery, love, healing – all taking place in a foreign location.” “From beginning to end keeps you on the edge-of-your-seat.” “Loved the intricately woven plot and layers of subplots.” “I read this book twice. The first time I couldn’t put it down. The second time I was transformed to the sights of a real place and its history.” “This is a page-turning thriller with twist after heart-wrenching twist.” “We are entertained while we visit new and exotic places. ”The page-turning suspense of the Nikki Garcia novels is sure to capture you!
Despertando en Medellin: Una Novela de Suspenso (Spanish Edition) by Kathryn Lane Terrazas (Author), Jorge Lane Terrazas (Translator)
Los asesinos también se visten como caballeros…
Cuando menos eso es lo que Nikki García sospecha mientras lleva a cabo una investigación en Medellín, Colombia.
Durante su trabajo como investigadora privada en un caso de corrupción corporativa, Nikki descubre dos muertes accidentales que ocurrieron en la compañía. Cuando un tercer empleado muere bajo circunstancias sospechosas, ella piensa que existe un complot siniestro.
En busca de evidencia, ella va a una fiesta de la compañía con la esperanza de encontrar secretos que han sido celosamente guardados. No descubre ninguna pista, pero conoce a un médico y siente una fuerte atracción por él y parece que sus sentimientos son correspondidos. Mientras su relación con él se profundiza, también se aumenta el peligro en el que ella se encuentra.
¿Podrá ser que el carismático doctor forma parte del complot siniestro?
Con el peligro que la amenaza, Nikki reconoce que ella tiene que actuar rápidamente para mantenerse viva.
Nikki Garcia, a former fraud auditor turned international private investigator, travels to Mexico—a country where private investigators are outlawed—to find a missing child.
The parents are embroiled in a nasty custody battle, with each parent accusing the other of the girl’s disappearance. It’s an easy child-snatching case—right?
That’s what Nikki thinks until an irreverent, marihuana-smoking homeless woman provides an eye-witness account of the girl’s kidnapping. Following the witness’s account, Nikki goes undercover and infiltrates a ring of dangerous human traffickers. In the midst of despair and treachery, can she find a glimmer of hope?
When the mother receives a ransom request, Nikki is already undercover with the diabolical human traffickers and her boss assumes she was purposely misled and sets out on a rescue mission.
Nikki’s fiancé, fearing the forces of evil will prevail, starts his own high stakes search to rescue the love of his life. In this gripping, twist-packed journey, will he locate her before it’s too late?
And what about the missing child? Who is going to save her?
If you love women sleuths, crime fiction, and the mystery and suspense novels of John Grisham, Kristi Belcamino, and Isabella Maldonado, you will also love Silver Falchion Award-Winning Author Kathryn Lane’s Nikki Garcia Mystery Series.
Reader Views says: “The action is so fast-paced readers never has a chance to catch their breath until the very end. Nikki is engaging and realistic, and I loved following right alongside her throughout the action. With bad people working on several sides, it is hard to figure out how this story is going to end until the actual end. Clues are given, but the plot keeps twisting and turning so readers will have to wait until the last chapter to know for sure who the bad guy is.”
Review: Nikki Garcia is an unlikely Sam Spade: a former international auditor who turns private investigator and lands an assignment in Mexico to find a missing ten-year-old child, Bibi Lombardi. Bibi’s estranged parents are fighting over her custody and one of them could even be responsible for her disappearance. It’s an easy child snatching case – right? Nikki pursues a trail of dangerous criminals through designated UNESCO locations, archaeological sites, picturesque colonial towns, and barren deserts. But when Sofía, Bibi’s mother, receives a ransom request, Nikki is already undercover with a gang of “Coyotes.” Nikki’s boss and fellow private eye is certain someone purposely provided misleading information on the abduction to prevent Nikki from recovering the child. Or is the kidnapper headed north to the U.S. border, where Bibi’s fate could be much worse than her current situation?
Award winning author Kathryn Lane spent some time with The Big Thrill discussing her latest novel, COYOTE ZONE:
Danger in the Coyote Zone is the thrilling new installment in the Nikki Garcia series by Kathryn Lane. Once again, Lane takes her readers to exotic locales with glutinous helpings of adventure and intrigue. The heroine, Nikki Garcia, is drawn back into threatening circumstances when her client’s daughter is kidnapped by a human trafficker and sends our heroine into undercover work that threatens her life and those of the young victims she needs to rescue.
Robert Selby, screenplay writer, book reviewer, and volunteer at the Killer Nashville International Mystery Writers’ Conference
Coyote Zone is a dynamic thriller. The action is so fast-paced the reader never has a chance to catch their breath until the very end! Nikki is engaging and realistic. All the characters are well developed. Readers will have no problems hating the characters meant to be hated, particularly with the hefty subject matter Lane tackles.
With bad people working on several sides, it is hard to figure out how this story is going to end until the actual end. Clues are given, but the plot keeps twisting and turning so the reader will have to wait until the last chapter to know for sure who the bad guy is. “Coyote Zone” by Kathryn Lane is highly recommended reading for fans of the genre. Paige Lovitt, Reader Views
Not only is this a page-turning thriller with twist after heart-wrenching twist, but it brings awareness to the very real issue of human trafficking. Lane’s research is apparent, and the reader feels a strong sense of place. Sharon Marchisello, author of Going Home and Secrets of the Galapagos
Kathryn Lane’s riveting Danger in the Coyote Zone keeps the reader spellbound as Nikki Garcia enters the shadowy world of human trafficking and races against time, corrupt officials, and ruthless criminals. You cannot put this book down. Hipolito Acosta, a highly decorated US Immigration and Naturalization Service Officer (retired) and author of The Shadow Catcher, The Hunt for Maan Singh, and Deep in the Shadows
What Amazon readers are saying about the Nikki Garcia Mysteries:
“What a story! Best book I have read in a very long time.”
“Mystery, love, healing – all taking place in a foreign location.”
“From beginning to end keeps you on the edge-of-your-seat.”
“Loved the intricately woven plot and layers of subplots.”
“I read this book twice. The first time I couldn’t put it down. The second time I was transformed to the sights of a real place and its history.”
“This is a page-turning thriller with twist after heart-wrenching twist.”
“We are entertained while we visit new and exotic places.”
The page-turning suspense of the Nikki Garcia novels is sure to capture you!
Nikki Garcia, a private investigator, escapes to Spain with Eduardo, her fiancé, after a death threat on her last assignment. She puts the past behind her and turns the trip to Barcelona into her destination wedding.
A week later, Nikki and the love of her life find themselves caught up in a terrorist attack at one of the city’s major tourist attractions. As events unravel, Nikki discovers she is being stalked. Worse yet, she may have been the target of the deadly bombing.
The newlyweds must navigate behind Spain’s legal and law enforcement systems to uncover the sinister person threatening Nikki.
Weaving their way through Barcelona to get facts, Nikki and Eduardo further endanger their lives upon discovering a series of suspects, from flamenco dancers to foreign nationals. Will they be able to locate the would-be assassin and outsmart him before it’s too late?
If you love women sleuths and the mystery and suspense novels of John Grisham, Kristi Belcamino, and Isabella Maldonado, you will also love Silver Falchion Award-Winning Author Kathryn Lane’s Nikki Garcia Mystery Series.
The novel is deftly plotted and masterfully written. — Christian Sia, Readers’ Favorite
Review by Michelle Jacobs, US Review: What begins as a romantic getaway to Barcelona for Nikki Garcia and her fiancé soon turns into a fight for her life with her enemies closing in fast to settle past scores. Nikki is no stranger to threats on her life and to using her wits to confront danger, so she is well-matched against the terrorists in this high-octane thriller. With international sites and multicultural flair, readers will be transported into a world of beauty and intrigue. From Morocco to the intimate corners of Barcelona, the suspense builds as Nikki closes in on villains and assassins devoted to their sinister mission. Deftly plotted with close calls, near escapes, and murderous plans, this ride never lets up from beginning to satisfying end.
Revenge in Barcelona by Kathryn Lane is a spellbinding novel that will entice fans of thrillers and sleuth stories. Kathryn Lane begins the story in the midst of action, with the protagonist arriving at her destination. It is not long before disaster strikes, and Nikki begins to sense that her life is in danger. The premise is strong, and it becomes even stronger because of the background of the protagonist — a former international fraud auditor. It is hard to determine who is after her, knowing that her work often places her in the position to make many enemies. Revenge in Barcelona is quickly paced, and the plot points are very strong. I enjoyed the fact that the key characters easily find themselves in dangerous situations. There is a lot of suspense as Nikki works hard to find out who is targeting her and why. The novel is deftly plotted and masterfully written. Readers Favorite
I highly recommend Revenge in Barcelona. A thrilling story with a well-researched plot – it’s easily 5 Big Stars. Reader Views
From The Back Cover: Back Cover: Praise for Revenge in Barcelona Revenge in Barcelona by Kathryn Lane is a spellbinding novel that will entice fans of thrillers and sleuth stories. Protagonist Nikki Garcia, a private investigator, is running for her life after a death threat while on assignment in Mexico. When she arrives in Barcelona with her fiancé, Eduardo Duarte, she is confident danger has been left behind.
Soon, Nikki begins to sense that her life is in danger from a new angle. The premise is strong and becomes even stronger because of the protagonist’s background–a former international fraud auditor. It is hard to determine who is after her, knowing that her work often places her in the position to make many enemies. Revenge in Barcelona is quickly paced, and the plot points are very strong. Suspense mounts as Nikki works hard to find out who is targeting her and why.
The novel is deftly plotted and masterfully written. Reviewed By Christian Sia for Readers’ Favorite
What Amazon readers are saying about the Nikki Garcia Mysteries: “What a story! Best book I have read in a very long time.” “Mystery, love, healing – all taking place in a foreign location.” “From beginning to end keeps you on the edge-of-your-seat.” “Loved the intricately woven plot and layers of subplots.” “I read this book twice. The first time I couldn’t put it down. The second time I was transformed to the sights of a real place and its history.” “This is a page-turning thriller with twist after heart-wrenching twist.” “We are entertained while we visit new and exotic places.” ”The page-turning suspense of the Nikki Garcia novels is sure to capture you!”
5 Stars:Exciting Mystery Crime Thriller!
I am positive that Author Kathryn Lane’s career as an International Finance Executive and her extensive knowledge with Latin American culture, brought Nikki Garcia (main character) to life in this exciting mystery crime thriller.
Kathryn educates her readers in the regular and famous places in Barcelona, Arabic words and phrases, Romani words, and Spanish/Catalan words and phrases. Her extensive list of characters (in the beginning of the novel) will help you relate early as the story unfolds.
Once you begin, you will not put this well written, fast paced mystery down. Chapter one begins at the airport baggage claim in Barcelona Spain. From the start, Nikki Garcia draws you into her situation and her romantic relationship with her fiancé, Eduardo Duarte, who is a Colombian citizen and medical doctor.
Let me bring you into Nikki’s secret investigation in Chapter 30. Nikki is at the Barcelona Majestic Hotel.
… “Attired in a housekeeper’s uniform and long black wig, Nikki looked in the mirror to make certain she had not left telltale streaks in the makeup that darkened her face and arms. Slipping on a set of glasses with heavy dark frames and lightly shaded lenses Floyd had provided as part of her disguise, she found they sat heavy on the bridge of her nose. Yet they further transformed her appearance, so she kept them on. Her last step included tucking the special mobile phone Floyd had provided into her apron pocket.
…Eduardo, in his maintenance coverall, had been watching Nikki. He called Floyd. “We’re ready.”
… “All clear.” Nikki could just make out Floyd’s voice over the phone. “I’ll meet you at the service elevator.”
… “Roger, roger,” Eduardo responded.
… “Roger?” Nikki repeated, chuckling as they walked toward the service elevator in the hallway where the emergency stairwell was also located.
… “Where did you learn that?”
… “Floyd. He said pilots and short-wave radio operators use it.”
… “Your accent makes it sound sexy,” Nikki said.
…They stepped out of the elevator into the plain service hallway, Nikki pushing the housekeeping cart. Floyd opened the door to the richly carpeted hall that guests used and checked for people. When he saw no one, he motioned them through. He would serve as lookout in the hallway near the door to the emergency stairs.
…Nikki used the passkey to open the door. With trepidation, she stepped into a dim foyer and pulled the cart in behind her. Without turning a light on, she continued into a living room. She stopped cold when she heard shrieking.
…An angry cat?”
…It is at this point that I will let you discover for yourself, what is making that awful sound and how much danger they might be in?
Author Kathryn Lane has also written ‘Waking Up in Medellin’ (Book One In The Nikki Garcia Thriller Series), ‘Coyote Zone’ (Book Two In The Nikki Garcia Thriller Series), ‘Revenge In Barcelona’ (Book Three In The Nikki Garcia Thriller Series) and a short story collection titled ‘Backyard Volcano: And Other Mysteries Of The Heart’.
Editorial Review and Endorsement by Book Marketing Global Network.
The Nikki Garcia Mystery (Crime Thriller Series) Box Set by Kathryn Lane.
Nikki Garcia is not afraid to investigate cases in foreign countries where she often faces corruption and double-dealing…
Nikki is sent to Colombia to investigate allegations of wrongdoing at the affiliate of a major multinational corporation.
When her work uncovers a network of drug dealers in Colombia, the leaders of the group are sent to prison. Believing that job is behind her, she accepts a child kidnapping case in Mexico and discovers the men behind bars in South America are plotting to kill her. To stay alive, she must escape to Spain and keep one step ahead of her assailants.
Book 1-Waking Up in Medellin: Nikki Garcia, a sexy international auditor, is sent to Medellin on assignment where she grapples with high level, mega-money corruption and her own ghosts. Then she’s kidnapped and will have one shot at surviving.
Book 2-Danger in the Coyote Zone: Fraud auditor turned private investigator, Nikki Garcia, goes undercover to find a missing child in Mexico, a country where private investigators are outlawed.
When Nikki goes undercover, she places her own life – and the lives of others she cares deeply about – in danger.
Book 3-Revenge in Barcelona: After witnessing a terrorist incident at a major tourist attraction in Barcelona, she discovers she may have been the intended target of the attack. She must act quickly to uncover her assailant before it’s too late.
If you like mystery and suspense novels, like those of John Grisham, Kristi Belcamino, and Isabella Maldonado, you will love Silver Falchion Award-Winning Author Kathryn Lane’s Nikki Garcia Mystery Series.
Kathryn’s novels take you to exotic international locations. Click the BUY NOW button at the top and enter Nikki Garcia’s world of mystery.
What Amazon readers are saying about the Nikki Garcia Mysteries: “What a story! Best book I have read in a very long time.” “Mystery, love, healing – all taking place in a foreign location.” “From beginning to end keeps you on the edge-of-your-seat.” “Loved the intricately woven plot and layers of subplots.” “I read this book twice. The first time I couldn’t put it down. The second time I was transformed to the sights of a real place and its history.” “This is a page-turning thriller with twist after heart-wrenching twist.” “We are entertained while we visit new and exotic places.” ”If you love mystery and suspense novels, like those of Louise Penny and Harlan Coben, you will also like Silver Falchion Award-Winning Author Kathryn Lane’s Nikki Garcia Mystery Series. Kathryn’s novels take you on action-adventure in exotic foreign countries. A former international finance executive, Kathryn and her husband split their time between Houston, Texas, and the mountains of northern New Mexico.”
Stolen Diary explores the challenges that Jasmin, a gifted yet socially awkward child, faces growing up with a disengaged mother. Her grandfather unwittingly creates further tension between Jasmin and her mother by encouraging her genius.
Unable to deal with her mother’s rejection, Jasmin escapes into a world of her own, a world of science and music, until she suspects family secrets are being kept from her. She steals her mother’s diary in hopes of finding clues to uncover the truth. When she fails to detect any, she hides the diary, creating a secret of her own that brings unforeseen and fateful consequences.
When a kidnapping threat becomes reality, Jasmin’s world is altered. The upheaval exposes the roots of her mother’s disdain and provides the clues Jasmin must pursue if she is to unravel the family secrets.
Review by DT: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Another good book by Kathryn Lane Hurt. Reviewed in the United States on October 3, 2023. Verified Purchase. Well written, good story.
Review by Jann Van Dyke: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. A Different Kind of Book from Kathryn. Reviewed in the United States on April 9, 2023. Verified Purchase. Having only read Kathryn’s Nikki Garcia series, I was pleasantly surprised by Stolen Diary! Although it was also a mystery of sorts, it had a different feel to it. Kathryn captured the innocence of a young girl and her view of the world. When the lead character travels to Princeton, New Jersey I was taken back to my youth growing up there and ice skating on Stoney Brook! Stolen Diary certainly kept my interest and I recommend it to teen readers, as well as adults!
Review by Amazon Customer: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. I love a good “page turner”! This book is hard to put down! Reviewed in the United States on March 18, 2023. Verified Purchase. This is my favorite Kathryn Lane novel, so far! you are taken on a journey from a luxurious estate in Mexico to Princeton University with a quick trip to beautiful Niagara, Canada. The suspense builds along the way and gives you a surprise ending!
Review by Jenifer Owens: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Fantastic Book! Reviewed in the United States on April 6, 2023. Verified Purchase. Stolen Diary us an excellent read! It has a little bit of everything; intrigue, romance, and some education too. Once I started, I couldn’t put it down until I had finished. Can’t wait for Kathryn’s next book
Review by Kay: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. A good read. Reviewed in the United States on January 28, 2023. Verified Purchase. This is an excellent mystery. So many twists and turns, just when I thought I had it figured it out, another turn. The only objection was too many technical parts that I had to skip over to get back to the plot. Highly recommend this book and others by Kathryn Lane
Review by Ruth Glover: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Amazing Creative! Reviewed in the United States on September 20, 2023. You need to get this book if you have a child who loves math and science. The lead character is an unloved genius with a love for cats and technology. The author stunned me with the detail and surprises in the Stolen Diary. I loved the setting in Mexico, as it reminded me of when I visited Mexico as a child. The characters were unusual and fascinating. The child’s mother was caustic and unkind, yet you had to keep reading to uncover the reasons. You’ll wonder throughout the book how the puzzle will end.
Backyard Volcano And Other Mysteries Of The Heart by Kathryn Lane.
These stories help define the world of the Texas-Mexico Frontier—an explosive world where lives break, loves shatter, and healing happens.
Kathryn Lane, a native of Mexico, explores this world, leading readers on a journey through time and geography with the promise of magic and transformation.
Review by Customer 2: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Great collection of short stories that left me wanting more. Reviewed in the United States on February 13, 2018. Verified Purchase. Great collection of short stories that left me wanting more! I laughed reading “My Daughter’s Hand” and cried reading “Baseball Over The Moon”. Still wondering who killed “Max”!
Review by Dede Fox: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Weaving multiple subplots in Backyard Volcano, Kathryn Lane skillfully … Reviewed in the United States on July 4, 2017. Weaving multiple subplots in Backyard Volcano, Kathryn Lane skillfully draws the reader into the story of Patricia, the protagonist, and her journey from childhood in southern Texas to adulthood in Mexico. Her grandmother’s mysterious life and tales about the Paricutin volcano mesmerize Patricia, but her Abuela dies when she’s fifteen. Years later as a research fellow in volcanology, Patricia returns to her grandmother’s home town near Paricutin and discovers sinister information about her grandmother’s life. As Patricia seeks to unravel the mysteries, both old and new, she takes us on a riveting ride of intrigue and intensifying danger. Also included in the anthology are surreal short stories with a heightened sense of mystery and ghost-like qualities. Readers won’t want to put this one down.
Product Details: Paperback: 200 Pages Publisher: Alamo Bay Press (April 11, 2017) Language: English Short Stories (Mysteries Of The Heart) Mysteries (Short Stories)
About The Author: Kathryn Lane, award-winning author of the Nikki Garcia Mystery Series, sets her novels and short stories in foreign countries and exotic places.
Kathryn credits her imagination to growing up in Mexico, a country which was rich in storytelling and steeped in cultural traditions. Her creativity was first expressed by painting in oils and when reality of earning a living set in, she studied accounting and finance, and joined a multinational corporation where she attained her dream job of traveling abroad.
After two decades in the corporate world and having visited over 90 countries, Kathryn left to fulfill a second dream – writing mystery and suspense novels.
Fans of strong female protagonists and suspenseful stories are likely to enjoy Kathryn’s work. The Nikki Garcia thrillers include:
Waking Up in Medellin – named Best Fiction Book of the Year 2017 by Killer Nashville. Also available in Spanish edition “Despertando en Medellin”. Recently announced as a finalist in the Latino Books into Movies Latino Themed TV Series 2021. Also available in Audio.
Danger in the Coyote Zone – first place winner in the Action/Adventure category in Latino Books into Movies 2018. It was also a finalist in the Thriller category at Killer Nashville 2018.
Revenge in Barcelona – Silver Winner, Mystery/Thriller, Reader Views, 2019-2020. Finalist in the 2020 Eric Hoffer Book Awards. Finalist in the Next Generation Book Awards for 2020. Also, recently announced as a finalist in the Latino Books into Movies Latino Themed TV Series 2021.
Missing in Miami – Winner, 2022 International Latino Book Awards, Best eBook Fiction.
Stolen Diary – is Kathryn’s the latest release. A stand-alone novel, explores the challenges a gifted child, who is also on the autism spectrum, must face growing up with a disengaged mother who cannot relate to her, and a doting grandfather who encourages her genius.
Kathryn’s short story collection, Backyard Volcano and Other Mysteries of the Heart, was named Best Short Story Collection 2018 by Killer Nashville.
Kathryn and her husband, Bob Hurt, split their time between Texas and the mountains of northern New Mexico.
AWARDS: Kathryn Lane Is The Award-Winning Author Of The Nikki Garcia Mystery Series:
Waking Up In Medellín-First Release March 2016;Second Edition February 2020.
Silver Falchion for Best Fiction Book of the Year 2017 by Killer Nashville International Writers’ Conference.
Silver Falchion for Best Fiction Adult Suspense 2017 by Killer Nashville.
Finalist Mystery Category for the 2017 RONE Award by InD’tale Magazine.
Silver Medal 2017 Fiction Thriller, Readers’ Favorite Book Awards.
Danger In The Coyote Zone-First Release October 2017; Second Edition May 2020.
First Place Award in Action/Adventure Category of 2018 Latino Books into Movies.
Finalist in the Thriller category 2018 by Killer Nashville.
Finalist 2018 Thriller Category Book Excellence Awards.
Revenge In Barcelona-Released December 2019. Winner 2020 Latino Books Into Movies, Latino Themed TV Series.
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,769 Fiction (Coming Of Age). Stolen Diary by Kathryn Lane. Stolen Diary explores the challenges that Jasmin, a gifted yet socially awkward child, faces growing up with a disengaged mother. Her grandfather unwittingly creates further tension between Jasmin and her mother by encouraging her genius. Unable to deal with… Continue reading →
Valuable Life Lessons, Loveable Character, Reduces Child’s Anxiety.
Pete Pallet’s New School by David Frosdick.
‘Pete The Pallet’ is an educational children’s book. This book delivers an entertaining and reassuring message for pre-school children and their parents. ‘Pete The Pallet’ is a loveable character, who shares his own first day of school and first time in a classroom experience. The first day of school is often stressful, for both children and parents. ‘Pete The Pallet’ teaches a valuable lesson in overcoming the anxiety, while enjoying the success of getting through the first day of school.
5-Stars: Delightful Educational Picture Book, For Pre-School Children.
Let Pete The Pallet (lovable character), reduce your child’s anxiety, about their first day of school.
As Pete The Pallet shares his first day of school and classroom experience, your child will see that everyone has some stress, when facing things for the first time.
When your child reads and understands Pete The Pallet’s message, your child will become less fearful of their first day at school. Pete’s story will stay with your child and even help you, as you watch your child step away for the first day of school.
Author David Frosdick has done an amazing job with Pete The Pallet. The bright, beautiful illustrations from Mark Wilson will fill your child’s mind with positive, memorable images and reassuring words.
Your child will look forward to the first day of school. He or she will dream about all amazing adventures to come, in the classroom.
I give this educational book 5-Stars.
Author David Frosdick promises new adventures from Pete The Pallet, in the future.
Editorial Review and Endorsement by Book Marketing Global Network.
Product Details: Pete’s Pallet Series Books One Paperback: 28 Pages Publisher: Independently Published Mark Sean Wilson (Illustrator) Language: English Children’s Books: New School Children’s Books: Pre-School Children’s Books: Ages: 3-10 Years
Pete Pallet’s Healthy Fruits and Vegetables by David Frosdick.
An educational character created to deliver an entertaining and reassuring message for pre-school children and their parents.
Pete Pallet is a lovable character, supported by Franky forklift, who in “Pete Pallet’s New School” shared his own first day of school and first time in a classroom experience. The first day of school is often stressful, for both children and parents, and in this book Pete Pallet teaches valuable lessons when faced with the challenging experience of eating in a group and facing fresh, sometimes unfamiliar, foods for the first time.
Product Details: Paperback: 55 Pages Mark Sean Wilson (Illustrator) Publisher: Pete Pallet (January 28, 2025) Language: English Reading Age: 3-10 Years Children’s Books: Foods (Fruits and Vegetables) Children’s Books: Ages: 3-10 Years
Log Lines For Pete’s Pallet Series For Ages 3-10 Years.
When a warehouse pallet comes to life, he makes it his mission to teach kids about life’s many challenges, such as healthy nutrition and calming your nerves. Meet Pete the Pallet.
Pete the Pallet is a fun lovable cartoon that seeks to teach kids life’s lessons.
Pallets are normally inanimate objects in a warehouse, but not only can Pete the Pallet talk, but it has the honorable mission of helping kids understand some of life’s biggest challenges.
Pete the Pallet is more than just a warehouse pallet. Through his life lessons on major topics like nutrition, he makes complex issues easy for kids to understand and follow.
Welcome to the world of Pete the Pallet! The fun, loving cartoon pallet that makes issues like nutrition and dealing with stress digestible for children.
Pete the Pallet makes it his life mission to deliver life’s lessons to the kids who need it most.
Pete is not your ordinary teacher. Actually, he’s a pallet and one that is ready to teach your kids the life lessons they need to know to survive in the modern world.
Pete the Pallet isn’t your average talking pallet. In fact, he might be the only one, which is perhaps why kids trust him enough to actually learn from him how to overcome life’s challenges.
Pete the Pallet is passionate about helping your kid learn lessons that most humans find it difficult to teach. By interacting through character, Pete knows how to make your child understand what’s needed to survive in the modern era.
Many kids face challenges in life that are complicated by a lack of education on practical life issues. Pete the Pallet is here to solve that problem and bring your kids up to speed.
If your children don’t want to eat their vegetables, then maybe let Pete the Pallet take a shot at it. Pete knows how to show your children the value in eating healthy, among other life issues.
Who wouldn’t want to be friends with Pete the Pallet? In this program, Pete helps children set themselves up for a successful life by tackling everyday issues like nutrition.
It’s about time someone took Pete the Pallet seriously! He’s been waiting for his moment to shine. Never again will you have nobody to turn to as you’re faced with life’s most essential challenges, including how to eat well.
What’s better than a human going on and on about life’s essential lessons like nutrition? Listening to Pete the Pallet really break it down on a level that kids understand. This series will cover many issues that face everyday kids throughout the world.
Pete the Pallet is not just a pallet, he’s a guide on how kids can live a better life. Step into his school as he teaches children just how easy life lessons like creating a balanced diet can be.
About The Author: While working in a local warehouse, Author David Frosdick found himself maneuvering a pallet labeled Made in Vietnam and the words he had heard so many times as a child growing up in England, ‘if only it could talk’, popped into his head.
Pete Pallet was born as a loveable character that children can learn from. Other books in the series, such as Pete Pallet’s New School and the support song, Clap Away the Nerves have been received well by parents with young children who are about to start school. They are reassured that ‘even grown-ups get nervous’. It is David’s hope that Pete the Pallet books will encourage kids and help parents teach their children valuable lessons.
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,601 Time’s Pendulum Swings Again by Joy M. Lilley. Jenny is working as a nurse, when she meets Seb. She is a young woman, living with her mother and has had a strict religious upbringing. Seb is a handsome, successful surgical registrar and Jenny is incapable of resisting his… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,749 Strawberry Moon by Joy M. Lilley. The Patterson family leaves the U.K. to begin a new life in France. St Severin, in the Dordogne, provides the backdrop for the family’s new home and all of the life-changing obstacles they are about to encounter. Maisie, who is almost seventeen,… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,603 With Tears In Her Eyes by Joy M. Lilley. Sequel to One Chance Encounter Moyra returns from the United States of America feeling down and unfulfilled. She had failed in her quest to find the celebrity she briefly met the year before. A bad accident gave her plenty… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,616 One Chance Encounter by Joy M. Lilley. Two strangers, a UK married woman and an American movie star meet and said hello. Their hello turned into an online relationship. The online relationship turned into a wanting to see each other again. The desire for one chance encounter turned… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,711 My Aunt Peggy by Joy M. Lilley. This story written by the protagonists niece is an insight to a lady with little education or hope of achievements and success in her life. However she bucked the trend and achieved much in life. Her family loved her dearly and… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,656 Spy and Villain by Joy M. Lilley. A physically handicapped lady, thinks she sees dastardly goings on in the house opposite to where she lives. She is convinced that the woman opposite is being abused. A Christian theme runs through this story of a spy, the lady in… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,579 Joyful Pussy Cat Tales by Joy M Lilley. Pussy Cats are always looking for something to pounce on. They seem to be on an endless quest of adventure. But do we remember how their quest began? From the most gentle to the most fearless, you will read the… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,840 Colorado Author/Teacher Phyllis Hunsinger! Down and Dirty by Phyllis Hunsinger. A “how to” Math Book Spiral-Bound. Student mastery of math continues to decline as demonstrated by the increasing numbers of students requiring remediation prior to enrolling in college math classes. College professors admit that far too many students… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,542 Jewels In Time by Kathleen Heady. The year was 1216, and Brianna’s life changed the day her mother left to save herself from being burned as a witch. Brianna was left alone in her small English village knowing just enough magic to be labeled a witch herself, but… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,587 Charlene The Star and Hattie’s Heroes by Deanie Humphrys-Dunne. Charlene the Star was known for her jumping skills and ability to win in horse shows. But in this adventure, she wants something exciting to do in her spare time. What will Charlene and her friends do for their… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,690 Charlene The Star by Deanie Humphrys-Dunne. Charlene the Star was born into a family of famous racehorses. Unlike her big brother, Charlie, Charlene decides she doesn’t like racing. How will she explain this to her mom? How does she show her trainers she doesn’t like racing? Will she… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,664 Charlie The Horse by Deanie Humphrys-Dunne. Charlie is an adorable young horse. He wants to be a famous racehorse like his dad, Charles the Great. But he doesn’t like to focus on his work. He’d rather munch on flowers. Who helps him progress toward his big dream? What… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,782 Un tractor llamado Wilbur by Deanie Humphrys-Dunne. las amistades duran para siempre (Spanish Edition). Wilbur es un pequeño tractor tímido. Le encanta cortar la hierba para Jim. Pero, ¿qué pasa cuando debe encontrar un nuevo hogar? ¿Jim seguirá siendo su amigo? ¿Quién será su nuevo dueño? A Wilbur… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,655 A Tractor Named Wilbur by Deanie Humphrys-Dunne. Friendships Last Forever (Wilbur The Tractor Book One). WILBUR is a small, shy tractor. He loves cutting the grass for Jim. But what happens when he must find a new home? Will Jim still be his friend? Who will the new… Continue reading →
READERS/FOLLOWERS: 2,618 Wilbur’s New Home by Deanie Humphrys-Dunne. A Surprise for Wilbur (Wilbur The Tractor). Wilbur is very excited to present the second book in the Wilbur the Tractor series. Review by Hollie Anne Marsh, Children’s Author: “A sweet story about Wilbur the cutest tractor, who faces an unknown future… Continue reading →
My Life At Sweetbrier: A Life Changed by Horses by Deanie Humphrys-Dunne.
What if you grew up on a horse farm and your single passion was to become a champion horseback rider?
The problem is, you were born with a disability. Doctors tell your parents you’ll never walk, let alone ride.
What will happen next?
What does her dad do that changes her life?
Will a failed racehorse and a handicapped girl become a winning team?
This is the author’s true story of her journey. Even if Deanie prevails, will she find exactly the right horse to help her win?
“Beautiful book and the illustrator did a marvelous job! We plan to give Wilbur much deserved exposure in the coming year.” ~Theodocia McLean, Book Marketing Global Network
5 Stars: For The Love Of A Horse, Family Bonds and A Father’s Promise To His Little Girl!
My Life At Sweetbrier (A Life Changed By Horses) by Deanie Humphrys-Dunne is a not only a well written memoir, but an inspirational journey that continues today. This journey begins when Deanie is two years old and diagnosed with cerebral palsy. The specialist told Deanie’s parents that she will not be able to walk and participate in activities that other children enjoy. Her family, especially her father, with grit and determination created ‘Sweetbrier Riding School’. Sweetbrier took young Deanie’s love for horses and gave her the skills, knowledge, disciple and ability to make it into the winner’s circle.
Let me bring you into Deanie’s story here: “My first riding adventure happened when I was five-year-old. Why did my heart pound when Daddy led me around the riding ring on the freckled grey pony, Little Man, for the first time ever? I plodded around, listening to the steady clip-clop of Little Man’s hooves hit the sandy soil of theriding ring. My legs wobbled, sliding from side to side. Isn’t it amazing I didn’t fall off? Daddy led me around while he rode another horse because my arms weren’t strong enough to steer Little Man myself. Sometimes when I rode along on Little Man my legs got so tired I slid off. Yikes! Without warning, I sat in the dirt looking up at Little Man. I wasn’t hurt but disappointed I fell off for no reason. What happened next? Could I give up? That was never an option. The family motto was, “The Humphrys don’t give up.” Daddy picked me up, gave me a kiss, and lifted me back on.How could I figure out the magic formula for staying on? It was much more fun than sitting in the dirt without my pony.”
Deanie never gave up through all life’s challenges, her surgery and horse shows that brought her into the winner’s circle. The photos included in this book will carry you into her world. There is a quiz at the end with answers, that reinforce this amazing true story.
As an adult, Deanie Humphrys-Dunne became an award-winning children’s author. The stories and illustrations in her eight books will delight and inspire beginner readers all the way up through the teen years. I encourage you to purchase Deanie’s books, give them as gifts, and even donate them to libraries, medical facility waiting rooms and places where kids and parents gather.
Editorial Review and Endorsement by Book Marketing Global Network.
Review by Gigi Sedlmayer, Book Excellence Award Finalist winning author of the Talon series. 5.0 out of 5 Stars. With determination you can achieve your dream. Reviewed in the United States on May 30, 2017. Verified Purchase. First, I have to say: To have a daddy as Deanie has, is priceless. Unfortunately, not all daddies would do what Deanie’s daddy did. So, Deanie’s book is the amazing story what he achieved as Deanie was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy. Growing up with this disease, it’s not easy. But with such a help of her dad? Deanie can do everything, as she did and fulfilled her dream: riding horses, her love, even winning competitions. How could she not have that dream, living on a farm with horses. It was quite a journey and not every time it worked out as Deanie wanted it to be. But with determination and getting up again, after a fall, so never giving up, she finally achieved her dream. A powerful message for never giving up. Well done, Deanie. What an inspiration you are. Thank you that i could read your amazing story.
Review by shimsl: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. A positive true story. Reviewed in the United States on January 20, 2019. Verified Purchase. This is a positive story about a girl born with cerebral palsy, who despite a diagnosis she will never walk, let alone ride a horse, proves the doctors wrong. A true story, the author describes her own youth in detail through her special love of horses, and one horse in particular named Peach. They go on to win many championships together, but winning does not come without struggle and setbacks. The author learned from her many mistakes as she was gently guided down a challenging path by two very supportive parents. A takeaway for young readers will be that perseverance (not ever giving up) is key to success, that learning from your mistakes is a good thing, and that an understanding and supportive family is truly a blessing.
Review by JillLori: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Life is about creating yourself and having hope. Reviewed in the United States on July 31, 2020. Verified Purchase. Being born with a disability did not hold Deannie back from accomplishing her dreams. With love and guidance from her emotionally supportive family she became who she wanted to be, an independent, talented and competitive horse rider. She had a dream and continued to follow her passion. This true story is an excellent example of what a positive attitude and persistence can accomplish. Deannie created herself by design and reading this story sends a positive message for all to do the same.
Review by reader2010: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Excellent story. Reviewed in the United States on February 14, 2018. Verified Purchase. An excellent story that brings home some vital lessons. Never give up. You may need to devise different ways to do something physically challenging, but never stop trying. There is also another lesson, one for parents. Encourage your children and help them find those other ways so they will have the confidence to grow strong even with a disability.
Review by Rich Linville: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. A Truly Beautiful and Inspiring Autobiography. Reviewed in the United States on June 27, 2018. Verified Purchase. At birth, her parents were told that Deanie would never walk again. With the love of her family and her love of horses, she overcomes many obstacles. Her “Pearls of Wisdom” are a reminder to us all that perseverance is important in our lives. Highly recommended to adults and children.
Review by Karen Smith: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Some more to love. Reviewed in the United States on June 4, 2017. My Life at Sweetbrier by Deanie Humphrys-Dunne is such a great story and so true. I have an have read the first book but this one it tells you so much more and then there is also the pictures that have been added.
When from the first page that you read, you are going to be hooked, and you will not be able to put down till the last page comes. You will feel yourself right there, like when she is sitting in the dirt, I can just hear her mind saying well have to get up can’t sit here if I am going to become a great rider that I know I can be. When they talk about the house and the rooms, I am here in a small apt., but I could feel myself in those large rooms. I could feel the hurt in my heart the way she was treated when she first started school. It was so hurtful the way the other students acted, and they do act like that I was also never chosen but mine was because I was fat and the feeling was, I also would not be able to do what the others were doing.
There is so much love in this story from her family and for her love of horses that you could feel that whatever she wanted out of her life she was going to find a way to do just that. There is so much in all six now of the books that go with this one, you will just know what is in the minds of the horses as well as the people you will feel it all. Please everyone read an feel in your heart what is being told in this story and then go an send a message to the author and after that make a review so that so many others will enjoy and feel what a person can make out of their life an share what she is telling you, you never ever should say I CAN’T DO WHAT EVER IT IS.
I hope that one day we will find another book coming out for us to share what is going on with Elliott, Hattie Wooliam any of the ponies or horses how did their futures turn out.
Well, all I can say now is get the first five books and then make sure you have this one MY LIFE AT SWEETBRIER, send a message to the author to let her know how much you love all the books, and don’t forget to make a review about what you feel and have learned.
Review by Colleen M. Chesebro:5.0 out of 5 Stars. Deanie Humphrys-Dunne is a real champion and motivator. Her journey will inspire you to reach for the stars. Reviewed in the United States on May 19, 2017.
Do you love horses and stories filled with courage and inspiration? Young, Deanie Humphreys was born a preemie with the debilitating disease called cerebral palsy. At birth, a portion of her brain was damaged. The result was that Deanie had difficulty walking. Now, for most kids, this would be enough to limit their physical activities for life. But Deanie’s father made a huge decision that changed her life. He said, “I’m going to teach you to ride, and you’ll be fine.”
That single decision changed Deanie’s life forever. Deanie took her first steps at four years old. With the grit and determination of someone much older than herself, she set out to prove the doctors wrong. And, let me tell you. Deanie’s journey is filled with the hopes and joys that only reaching for your dreams and succeeding can bring. It was the ability to ride a horse that gave Deanie the freedom and normality she craved.
My Life at Sweetbrier: A Life Changed by Horses, is Deanie’s story based on memories and photos from her childhood. The book is written for children of all ages and filled with the kind of stories that everyone can easily relate to. The underlying theme is clear – perseverance pays off – never give up on your dreams.
I laughed and cried with the young Deanie, and I felt her pain at not being like the other kids. This is the kind of book you want to read and discuss with your children, talking about empathy for those who are different; while at the same time, encouraging children to not just accept their lot in life. The author writes:
“…it is wise to use your challenges to motivate you toward your goals because when you’ve conquered one obstacle, you’ve gained the confidence to tackle your next challenge.”
Also, at the back of the book, the author provides a quiz for the reader to pull from their memory the finer points of the story. Answers are provided giving an additional learning opportunity.
I loved this sweet story of courage in the face of adversity. It was a poignant story of perseverance and motivation to never give up on your dreams. Deanie Humphrys-Dunne is a real champion and motivator. Her journey will inspire you to reach for the stars.
MY RATING: Character Believability: 5 Flow and Pace: 5 Reader Engagement: 5 Reader Enrichment: 5 Reader Enjoyment: 5 Overall Rate: 5 out of 5 Stars
Review by Neesie315: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. A Truly Inspiring Story. Reviewed in the United States on February 4, 2021. This was an enjoyable book with a great message for anyone. Although it is written for children, I am well past childhood and enjoyed it a lot.
The author was born prematurely and when she was still unable to walk at the age of three, her parents were told that she had Cerebral Palsy and would never be able to walk. However, her Daddy (especially) was determined that Deanie would be able to walk and more. Her parents bought a horse farm named Sweetbrier and there her life truly began.
Deanie slowly learned to ride a horse and then eventually became a champion rider and jumper. Her determination and persistence are an inspiration to anyone reading this book.
This would be a great book to read or listen to as a family or a good book for young readers to read for themselves. The courage, patience, determination, persistence and positive attitudes shown by Deanie and her family have a great message for all of us.
The narrator was perfect for this book and added a lot to it. I was given the chance to listen to this book by the publisher and chose to review it.
Review by Theodore J. Cohen: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. A Book About True Grit…Reviewed in the United States on May 16, 2017. Most of us, parent or not, can’t imagine having a child that didn’t crawl until three-years of age, much less one who failed to walk until age four. But that was the early life of author Deanie Humphrys-Dunne, who, delivered two months premature, weighed only three pounds at birth. It took years before doctors finally were able to diagnose her condition: cerebral palsy. Fortunately for her, Ms. Humphrys-Dunne’s father, “a determined person” (that’s an understatement!) made the decision that what the doctor said wasn’t going to stand in his daughter’s way: he was going to teach his little girl how to ride a horse!
And teach her he did. As chronicled in “My Life at Sweetbrier”—a ‘can do’ story if ever there were on—the reader will learn of the struggles and the tears, the disappointments and setbacks, and finally, the joys and the triumphs that mark those among us with the courage to ‘play the hand we are dealt’ and live life on OUR terms.
It’s been said: life isn’t for sissies. Nothing demonstrates this more than what Deanie, with the help of her parents, has accomplished. Critical to the story, as you will learn, is the Humphreys’ farm, Sweetbrier, which includes a sprawling yellow Victorian-style house (built near the end of the 19th century) together with stables and a riding ring. It’s there where Deanie not only learned to ride, but also, to jump horses. Especially rewarding is her story about the jumping contest between Deanie’s pony, Doey, and a horse named Sunny.
Whether or not your life has been touched by adversity, you and your children will enjoy this heartwarming story. As well, there isn’t a person I know who couldn’t learn something about overcoming the obstacles thrown in our paths by simply reading the Deanie Humphrys-Dunne’s new book.
I give it FIVE STARS all the way.
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an objective review.
Review by kidztales: 5.0 out of 5 Stars. Very encouraging! Reviewed in the United States on May 13, 2017. Can you imagine living on a farm with horses but not being able to ride them? What would it be like to sit there, looking out the window, watching your sisters’ ride, and jump over fences on them? I think it would be horrible! What if you were disabled and one day your doctor says that you’ll never walk? What would your parents say or do? This all happened to author, Deanie Humphrys-Dunne. She takes us into her world of learning to ride a horse while having a disability. Not only that, but she tells us how she went on showing the horses and jump them in horse shows! She has the ribbons to show for it, too!
It all started when that doctor said Deanie would never walk. Her dad had other ideas contrary to what the doctor said. Thus, started Deanie’s long journey to the horse shows. It all started with her dad finding her a pony that she could handle and then strengthening her legs so that she could stay up. Then, she learned to walk the horse without falling off; everything up to jumping when she was eighteen. Through the years she’s ridden many horses as she grew and progressed. In this autobiography, the author takes us through all of the up and downs of her life. She tells us of the horses’ barn burning and her mother losing her favorite horse to Deanie finally getting a horse of her own!
I was very impressed with this inspirational book and the courageous author who wrote it! I feel it should definitely be in your home library. It will teach your children that they can overcome whatever obstacles life throws in their direction.
Product Details: Paperback: 142 Pages Publisher: Monday Creek Publishing (May 13, 2017) Language: English Biography (Memoirs)
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